Food strategy report presented to Kawartha Lakes councillors

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: The Kawartha Lakes Food Coalition recently marked a milestone, with the presentation of its Fifteen-Year Report to City of Kawartha Lakes Council, on Tuesday, May 6th. The comprehensive report reflects over a decade of work, towards a fair and sustainable local food system, one where healthy, nutritious food is accessible to all and no one goes hungry.

Formed in 2013, the Coalition has been a collaboration of individuals, organizations, and stakeholders involved in all aspects of the food system, from farm to fork. Over the years, it has grown to include two major working groups, Food Security and Growth and Sustainability which have tackled food access, education, economic development, and environmental practices.

"The Coalition has brought together passionate people from every part of the food system,” said Heather Kirby, Chair of the Kawartha Lakes Food Coalition. “We’ve shown collaborative, community-led efforts can drive real change, when it comes to food security and sustainable agriculture.”

Kelly Maloney, Economic Development Officer – Agriculture for the City of Kawartha Lakes, highlighted the strategic impact the Coalition has had. “Through initiatives like Kawartha Choice Farm Fresh and food hub feasibility studies, we've helped build a stronger, more connected local food economy which supports our farmers and our communities,” she said.

One of the Coalition’s key accomplishments, through its Food Security Working Group, has been the Summer Lunch Program, which has provided nearly 5,000 meals to students facing food insecurity, since its launch in 2018. The group also advocated for the Basic Income Pilot, supported food literacy workshops, and maintained a database of community gardens.

Karla Enns, from Community Care of City of Kawartha Lakes, noted the group’s hands-on community efforts. “From supporting the Kirkfield 'Food Culture' garden to helping residents learn how to grow and cook their own food, the Food Security Working Group has been there to fill the gaps, where food insecurity exists,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Growth and Sustainability Working Group focused on the broader food economy, emphasizing local food marketing, sustainable farming practices, and training opportunities. “We've seen a real rise in farmer-to-farmer learning and public interest in where food comes from,” said Ms. Maloney. “It's been about resilience and readiness for the future.”

Looking ahead, the report outlines a significant shift: the Kawartha Lakes Food Coalition itself will be dissolved, to streamline efforts and avoid duplication. However, both working groups, and their many partners, will continue their vital work independently, allowing them to better align with their specific goals and directions.

“The work doesn’t end here,” said Ms. Kirby. “We’re not slowing down, we’re evolving. The relationships and momentum built through the Coalition will continue to fuel meaningful work in the community.”

The full report, now part of the public record, is seen as both a celebration of accomplishments and a blueprint for future progress in building a healthier, more sustainable food system in the City of Kawartha Lakes.