Food Security Programs
Our food programs strengthen food security on Gabriola. We aim to provide food to those who need it while fostering social connections, sustainability and good health in our community. We offer a variety of resources, programs and workshops with our partners and team of dedicated volunteers.
Supporting Food Security in our Community
GROWING & HARVESTING FOOD
FEEDING OUR COMMUNITY
FOOD SKILLS
FOOD RECOVERY
Grocery Program
(Food Bank)
The Grocery Program provides food to those in need.
Participants must register for the Grocery Program by contacting the Food Programs Coordinator at 250-247-7322 or food@phcgabriola.org or by dropping in during grocery hours.
Grocery pick-up is available at PHC from:
Tuesdays - 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Wednesdays - 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
* Some deliveries can be arranged for Wednesday if you have barriers to picking up. If you require a grocery delivery please phone or email before noon on Wednesday.
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Food Recovery Program
in association with
In partnership with Nesters Food Market, this program addresses both food insecurity and food waste. PHC collects food products that Nesters can no longer sell and sorts the food into three categories for redistribution. First for people to enjoy, then for animals and finally, compost for the PHC gardens. Food Recovery items for people are utilised in the Grocery Program, Soup Socials and children's programs as well as at community distribution locations. See our schedule for times.
Farmer's Market Coupon Program
In partnership with the Gabriola Agricultural Association Co-Op, this program supports both low-income community members and farmers. Low income seniors and families are given coupons that they can redeem on select items from farmers at the local market.
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Apply for 2023 Farmer's Market Nutrition Coupon Program click the button below.
Growing Food In Our Gardens
We grow food for our school and community in garden beds located at the Commons and Namaste Farm. By providing fresh, locally grown produce we contribute to participants’ health and wellness. We also facilitate the learning of gardening skills with the elementary school students who help and learn in the gardens weekly during Fall and Spring.
Building Food Skills
We provide opportunities, such as Community Kitchen Workshops, to build food skills for cooking and eating healthier. These workshops strengthen social connections and overall community wellness.