PEC Food Collective seeks public input on food-based initiatives

The PEC Food Collective is asking residents to offer feedback to help inform food-based initiatives in Prince Edward County.

“The survey is a great chance to have your opinions and experiences heard on a range of local community issues related to food and food access,” said Glen Wallis, Food to Share founder and PEC Food Collective steering committee member. .

He notes that as part of a project funded by the Rural Ontario Institute, local and regional organizations have joined forces. They are currently working together on a number of food awareness and food access projects throughout the County.

The newly formed PEC Food Collective includes representatives from the municipality, The County Foundation, Prince Edward Learning Centre, Food To Share, Wellington Storehouse Food Bank, Picton United Church Food Bank, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health, CDC Quinte and Loyalist College.

“Food insecurity is one of the most pressing challenges our community faces right now. Tackling this complex issue will take a group effort, and this new collective is an encouraging step in the right direction,” said Mayor Steve Ferguson.

Mike Farrell, Research Project Lead, notes much of PEC Food Collective’s work over the past few months has involved hands-on education, awareness, and outreach.

“There is also a strong research aspect to this project. A series of one-on-one interviews and facilitated work sessions with those in the community most deeply affected by food insecurity has already occurred.”

The group is now conducting an online survey on a wide range of food-related topics. The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Respondents will be entered into a draw for one of three prize packages each worth $200 – a $150 grocery gift card and $50 of gift cards for local restaurants.

Click here to fill out the survey online. 

For more information about the survey, contact Mike Farrell, Research Project Lead, at mike.farrell@conversiondigital.ca. For more information about the PEC Food Collective, email info@thecountyfoundation.ca.