The first annual "OUR FOOD: Then and Now" collaboration between the Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives, the Arts Building, and the One Straw Society was a grand success, both in terms of its goal of raising awareness about the history, local character and art of food production on the Sunshine Coast, and also by raising funds for the "Food For All Coupon Program". Through events such as the Hootenanny Dinner & Dance, a silent auction of local food-inspired art, a series of art & food arts workshops, and two evenings of films and discussion, our community contributed enough funds to support 31 weeks worth of food coupons that will be distributed to under-resourced families so that they can access local, nutritious food at farmers' markets. That's enough to feed 2.5 families for the full season with healthy food!
Our three collaborating organizations were so pleased with both the process and the outcomes that we're excited to start working together for next year's project, which will again include an exhibit at the Museum on the culture & history of food production on the Coast, a kick-off dinner & dance featuring an auction of local artists' works, and several awareness-raising and skill-building workshops, not only in Gibsons, but at locations throughout the Coast.
Special thanks go out to all the volunteers, artists and local businesses who generously donated their time and products to support this endeavour - and heartfelt appreciation to everyone who participated and helped make our pilot year such a success! We had a blast, and we hope you did too.
If you'd like more information on the Food For All Coupon Program, or would like to donate to support a family, contact nadi@onestraw.ca.
For more information on our societies, visit our websites: www.sunshinecoastmuseum.ca, www.artsbuilding.org, www.onestraw.ca
