How We’re Addressing Food Insecurity
Every trip to the grocery store highlights just how much the cost of living is rising. In fact, data shows grocery prices have gone up more than 30% over the last five years. With more than 40% of families led by single moms experiencing food insecurity, YWCA BC is committed to supporting women and children through food-related programs and services.
The YWCA Rooftop Garden is an incredible example of how we’re finding creative ways to combat rising food costs to support participants. Each year, the garden produces 1,200 pounds of fresh produce, which goes directly to YWCA Crabtree Corner’s kitchen to create nutritious meals for the community. Twice each day, women and children can access a hot meal from Crabtree’s kitchen.
Participants of some other YWCA programs also receive grocery store vouchers to mitigate the effects of high grocery costs. Additionally, a partnership with the Greater Vancouver Food Bank saw 8,000 pounds of fresh food donated to YWCA Cindy Beedie Place residents, including eggs, milk and produce.
The YWCA also offers Food, Facts and Fun, a food security program that provides practical nutrition education in a supportive, engaging group environment. Participants say they share recipes, traditions and grocery shopping tips with each other.
“I learned about vitamins and minerals, protein, fibre and how important they are,” said one Food, Facts and Fun participant. “We made meals from all over the world and I got introduced to new cuisines and the history of the meals and how to prepare them.”
Another participant shared the program supports her family's unique dietary needs.
“This program is very important to me and my daughter as we both have health issues and dietary needs that we cannot afford,” she said. “I love this program and I have enjoyed being a part of it.”
For more information on how to support YWCA Crabtree Corner’s Community Kitchen, contact Josh Hardwick at 604 895 5823 or jhardwick@ywcabc.org.
