Indigenous led farm receives 1 million grant to tackle food insecurity

The Vision Behind Tea Creek Farms

Tea Creek Farms is a community-led initiative that aims to promote food sovereignty and self-sufficiency in the Skeena Valley. The project’s vision is to create a thriving food system that is resilient, sustainable, and equitable. By developing a food hub and training centre, the initiative seeks to empower local communities to take control of their food systems and economies.

Enhance food security and access to healthy food

Support local economies and job creation

Promote sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship

Foster community engagement and social cohesion

The Role of the Longhouse

The 4,000 square-foot longhouse will serve as the hub of the food hub and training centre.

The farm is located in a rural area, and the workshops are held in a barn, which can accommodate a maximum of 12 people.

The longhouse is currently used for workshops, but it could also be used for food production.

Lack of infrastructure for irrigation and storage

Limited access to markets and transportation

Dependence on non-sustainable food systems

The Role of Community-Led Initiatives

Community-led initiatives have the potential to address the challenges of food production for Indigenous communities.

Food Sovereignty and Preservation

The food hub and training centre will focus on promoting food sovereignty, preservation, and economic empowerment. This approach prioritizes the rights of local communities to control their own food systems, ensuring that they have access to nutritious and diverse food options. By supporting local farmers and producers, the hub will help to build resilient food systems that are better equipped to withstand the challenges of climate change, economic instability, and other external factors. • Key aspects of food sovereignty include:

The right to food

The right to participate in decision-making processes

The right to control and manage one’s own food systems

The right to access and benefit from the results of agricultural activities

Economic Empowerment

The food hub and training centre will also provide economic empowerment opportunities for local communities. This may include training programs in areas such as business management, marketing, and finance, as well as access to funding and other resources.

The Visionary Project

The ambitious project, spearheaded by Beaton, aims to create a self-sustaining community that showcases innovative and sustainable living practices.

The CFIF aims to improve food security and support regional food systems in British Columbia. The Skeena Valley is home to a diverse range of farmers and producers, including local wild salmon, berries, and grass-fed beef. The region’s unique geography and climate contribute to its rich biodiversity and natural resources. The Skeena Valley Food Hub will support the development of a network of local food systems, including farmers’ markets, community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, and value-added food products. The hub will also provide resources and support for small-scale producers, enabling them to access new markets and increase their sales. Here is the generated text: The Skeena Valley, located in the northwestern region of British Columbia, has been selected as one of six communities to receive a significant investment of $1 million in support of developing a regional food hub.