Free Food Festival celebrates community

The Prince Edward County community is invited to “Feast! the Potluck Party in the Park Edition” Sunday, Aug. 19 from noon to 3pm in Benson Park, Picton.

In the style of the original ‘Feast’ free food event held in August 2016, this summer’s Feast is also a celebration of free food for all, but with a twist.

“This time we don’t have the benefit of a grant, however, Food Not Bombs has been fortunate to receive funds from food stylist Ruth Gangbar, who offered her talents to local food producers and donated the money from the sessions to us,” said Christine Renaud, one of the FNB organizers.

“We’re using the funds to host a really big free meal and provide what’s needed to make this a fun family day in the park, but we are also asking the community members who can to get involved by contributing to the potluck meal.”

As well, Renaud points out that often people have more food in their gardens than they can eat themselves, and if they would like to share with the community, this would be an opportunity to do so.

“It’s a great feeling to share the bounty and it’s going to be a great day of community building,” she said.

The day will also feature music by DJ Ombudsman Hri Neil, the Share the Bounty table, a cookbook swap, kids games and more.

Anyone who wants to contribute a dish to the potluck or help in any way is asked to contact FNB by e-mail at: pec.foodnotbombs@gmail.com or through its Facebook page Food Not Bombs PEC.

There will be blankets to sit on, but people are encouraged to bring their own as well, or chairs, as well as their own dishes and cutlery if they would like.

In addition to the potluck, donations of fresh produce and dry goods for the day of the event are welcome, as well as help with set up and clean up.

“The idea of the event is the same as in 2016, that is, to celebrate our harvest in community, enjoy free food, have fun and get to know each other,” said Renaud. “Food is a right, not a privilege.”