The Sunshine Coast Good Food Box (GFB) was excited to kick off Oct. 28. The Good Food Box is a monthly box filled with assorted, great tasting fruits and vegetables that are in season and, where possible, locally grown. The goal of the Good Food Box is to increase accessibility and reduce barriers to healthy food, thus increasing quality of life by allowing individuals to make healthier choices. The GFB is grateful for the funding received by the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation, to make this program a reality.
GFB on the Sunshine Coast is a collaborative project between several community organizations including the YMCA of Greater Vancouver, Sunshine Coast Regional District, Sunshine Coast Association for Com-munity Living (SCACL), Vancouver Coastal Health, and Marketplace IGA.
“Our goal was to provide opportunities for Coast residents and families to access healthy food at an affordable price, by purchasing in bulk and extending the savings to the Good Food Box” said Charlene Hay, GFB coordinator.
Each month people can order a box; they are delivered to pick-up points in our community, including SCACL, Sechelt Aquatic Centre and Gibsons and Area Community Centre. A Good Food Box costs $15 and contains a variety of healthy produce, as well as a newsletter and recipes.
“By ordering a box or bag, you are supporting local farmers and grocers, helping your family eat better, and getting some excellent fresh produce at an affordable price,” Hay added.
The first month was a huge success, with close to 50 boxes being ordered and delivered Oct. 28. Food was picked up at Marketplace IGA, offered generously at wholesale prices, and taken to the Sechelt arena for packing. Several volunteers helped to make light work of packing the 50 boxes, which were then dropped off at the pick-up locations. Many happy customers arrived to take them home, with lots of positive feedback.
This month’s orders must be received by Dec. 14 for Dec. 21 pick-up. The GFB is always looking for volunteers to help pack boxes in Sechelt on pick-up day. Email [email protected] to volunteer. Orders can be made through the SCRD website on the Recreation page.
– Submitted
