Nadine Baerg
Farm to School BC is a provincial network dedicated to bringing local food, experiential learning and community connections to our schools. In 2014 the Kamloops region was chosen as one of three new regional hubs along with Vancouver and Capital Region in recognition of their already strong local food movements, inspiring school health activity and potential to nurture a strong local network.
The Kamloops Hub Region for Farm to School BC has funded and supported eight schools to develop programs that feature local food, hands-on learning for students and community partnerships. Projects include growing micro-greens indoors for smoothies and salads, preparing school lunches and celebration meals in foods class, and tending gardens at school and in their neighbourhoods.
In May of 2016 over 100 students and partners gathered at the Henry Grube Centre to share their experiences, learn about other schools’ projects, and have a delicious locally sourced lunch. Ten community organizations, part of the Kamloops Food Policy Council network, engaged students in hands-on learning activities. Activities included seed cleaning and identification, a compost demo, taste testing and hands on food preparation.
A big thank you to Community Futures, Interior Community Services, the Kamloops Food Policy Council and community partners, School District 73 and Interior Health for making this day a success and for continued support of the Kamloops Hub Region.
To learn more about Farm to School BC visit their website at farmtoschoolbc.ca or read school’s stories of progress at http://farmtoschoolbc.trubox.ca/.