A Public Produce Garden is a step closer to reality in Cranbrook, after the Cranbrook Food Action Committee, through the city, was awarded a $20,000 Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Age-Friendly grant last week. The UBCM Age-Friendly Community Planning and Project Grant will provide funds that will jump start the development of a Public Produce Project in Cranbrook through the hiring of a project manager. This position will be essential to ensuring completion of project activities including:

–  engagement of seniors, community agencies and neighbourhood residents in the planning of a new community produce growing site;

– increase community awareness about the benefits of a public produce garden;

– purchase garden site equipment and structures;

– initiate the set-up of the garden site.

“The Cranbrook Food Action Committee is extremely pleased to have the opportunity to work closely with the City of Cranbrook and our community’s experienced senior gardeners on this inter-generational community project,” says Pat Chisholm, Cranbrook Food Action Committee member. “This funding will help improve access to locally grown, affordable food for a significant cross section of local residents.”

The Cranbrook Food Action Committee will be the advisory committee, while the Community Connections Society of Southeast BC will provide financial management of the project. The project seeks to engage senior involvement directly in the development and maintenance of the garden and will work toward integrating youth, seniors and families together at this neighbourhood gathering place.

The project also seeks to promote healthy seniors by providing them with access to locally grown fruits and vegetables. The next step is for the Cranbrook Food Action Committee to work with Cranbrook city council and administration to identify and approve a location for the project.

“This is good news for residents of Cranbrook and on behalf of Council I want to congratulate the Cranbrook Food Action Committee on securing the grant,” says Cranbrook Mayor Wayne Stetski. “I look forward to seeing this initiative develop and grow into a true community endeavour bringing youth, seniors and families together. Producing more of our food locally is important for a sustainable future.”

The C.F.A.C will seek the assistance and partnership with a number of other community groups, including the City of Cranbrook as the planning and development of the Public Produce Project moves forward. Phone: Toll Free: Facsimile: Address: (250) 426-4211 (800) 728-2726 (250) 426-7264 or 40-10th Avenue South Cranbrook, BC V1C 2M8.

Chris Zettel/City of Cranbrook

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