by Susan Healey, CPHC

foodcoreLGL is creating a Food Charter for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and Lanark County. A Food Charter is a guiding document, shaped by community members, that outlines a vision for the future of the food system in Leeds, Grenville and Lanark. The food system includes everything from growing food, to processing, storing, transporting, selling, buying, and eating food. From growers to eaters – we all fit into the food system.

foodcoreLGL is a team of individuals, community organizations, farmers, growers, producers, institutions, businesses and local government representatives. This group is co-chaired by Merrickville-Wolford Mayor, Doug Struthers and Reeve of Township of Montague, Bill Dobson. “This provides a unique partnership between the counties and different sectors who care about food,” says Struthers. “We have an opportunity to potentially influence change in the food system at a community level,” adds Dobson.

A Food Charter can help strengthen the local economy, support local producers, promote environmental conservation and improve the health and well-being of residents. foodcoreLGL is seeking input from community members. foodcoreLGL is currently gathering feedback on the initial draft of the charter. There is an online survey that can be found at http://www.foodcoreLGL.ca, or contact foodcoreLGL for a hard copy. If you are part of a business or interest group, you can contact foodcoreLGL to find out how you can lead a consultation with your group to get their feedback on the draft charter. Please email foodcoreLGL@gmail.com or you can call 613-283-2740 ext. 4273 for more information.