Our vision: A sustainable and just food system and food security for all people
A thriving and resilient food system is an important part of a thriving and resilient community. Food plays a central role in the health and well-being of individuals, families, and the larger community. Food and culture are interwoven – the processes involved in growing, preparing, serving and sharing certain foods are an important way that cultural knowledge is shared between generations. The sharing of food and food practices builds and nurtures cross-cultural relationships and knowledge. Food also plays an important role in many cultures and religions; certain foods and related places, knowledge and manners of harvesting are sacred.
The Burnaby Food System Strategy (BFSS) has been developed within this larger understanding of the vital role that food plays in our lives. It seeks to outline the ways through which the City of Burnaby can take action and support community efforts towards sustainable food systems and food security for all people in Burnaby.
Vision and values
The vision for the BFSS is grounded in the Burnaby Community Food Charter, a document created by the Project Advisory Committee with input from key people and organizations from the community. The Charter is a community-held document, being stewarded by the Burnaby Neighbourhood House.
Themes
All the actions recommended in the BFSS grow from the Strategy’s 5 core themes:
- Theme 1: Growing and Harvesting
- Theme 2: Food Economy
- Theme 3: Policy and Regulation
- Theme 4: Community Sector Support
- Theme 5: Structural Change