Kawartha Lakes Food Coalition passes the ‘fork’ to new leader

Kawartha Lakes Food Coalition has passed the ‘fork’ to a new leader, electing Heather Kirby as their new chair. Kirby is the general manager of Kawartha Lakes Food Source.

Elected at their recent annual general meeting, Kirby says she is excited to carry on the great work of the food coalition and its partners.

“Food is used to celebrate and is a common thread for all,” she says.

“The coalition will continue to support local food production, keeping our land sustainable to ensure the best growing conditions, and working to ensure that each resident of the City of Kawartha Lakes has access to nutritious food through advocacy and awareness,” says Kirby.

The coalition is thankful for the efforts of Mike Perry, executive director, Kawartha Lakes Family Health Team, for serving as the first chair. Perry led the newly formed organization through its early years.

“Agribusiness and the food sector are key here in our area both economically and for our health,” says Perry.

“We all need access to safe, local, nutritious food so I agreed to help out,” he adds.

“I learned a lot as chair and was thrilled to help put together the first ever local food forum in our community,” says Mike.

The coalition played a huge role in helping to secure Lindsay’s involvement in the Ontario Basic Income Pilot Program.

The Kawartha Lakes Food Coalition is working to build a just, sustainable and economically viable food system within Kawartha Lakes.

It’s an open network of more than 100 Kawartha Lakes residents and organizations involved in the local food system including farmers, processors, distributors, retailers, gardeners, restaurants, farmers’ markets, food banks, health professionals, policy makers and just plain food lovers.

Through working groups they are implementing the Kawartha Lakes Food Action Plan to get closer to the ideals identified in the Kawartha Lakes Food Charter.

Local residents interested in becoming involved in the work of the coalition should contact Heather Kirby at 705-324-0707 or Kelly Maloney at 705-324-6411 ext. 1208.