Quick background: a lab is “a process, one that is intended to support multi stakeholder groups in addressing a complex social problem”. Complex problems cannot be solved by a single actor or solution. Core characteristics of social labs include: a) Drawing participants from a wide variety of backgrounds , sectors, and experiences b) Experimenting with … More Food Labs Recap
The Parry Sound & Area Food Collaborative recently held the first of two Food Labs in Parry Sound in partnership with volunteer organizers from Studio [Y] at the MaRS Discovery District. The goal was to develop innovative strategies to support a sustainable and equitable food system in the Parry Sound area. Participants have opportunities to … More Food Lab Sparks Community Voice on Local Food
Why not volunteer or participate in a community garden as a way to show that you support the food charter? We put this activity under “Foster residents health and well-being”. Why you ask? Participating in a community garden can foster health and well-being in multiple ways. These can include physical health (for example, you’re being … More Charter Connections: Community Gardening
Meet Your Local Maker Speed dating took on a “local flavor” when area farmers, chefs and other food-related businesses met at Canadore College on Tuesday, Nov 24th. The Meet Your Local Maker event was organized by the Parry Sound & Area Food Collaborative, Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve, and Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce. The … More Meet Your (Local) Maker
Farm Owners: Cameron & Katy Ward Tell us a little about yourselves. How did the farm start? What is your history? The Ward family purchased the property in 1964. It started as a Horse Back Riding stable and eventually transformed into a cattle farm. We (Cameron and Katy) have been raising livestock and caring for … More A Visit to a Local Farm: Interview with Katy Ward from Middle River Farm
World Food Day is coming up this Friday, October 16th. Celebrate World Food Day by endorsing and signing the Parry Sound & Area Food Charter by clicking on “Sign the Charter”. World Food Day was founded by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization in 1945, and has been observed annually, every October 16, since 1981. … More Celebrate World Food Day with the Parry Sound & Area Food Charter
Food charters offer decision-makers, community groups or individuals an overall guide for shaping food-related policy and projects. Creating a food charter is a collaborative effort involving many stakeholders, often acting as a positive first step to encourage a community conversation about food system issues. It builds on collective values of a community that promote and support … More What Is A Food Charter?