Farm-to-table Initiative
Right now, every seed planted at our three BCCG garden locations has a purpose, feeding those who need it most. This season, in addition to our regular donations to the food bank, we’re excited to launch the BCCG Farm-to-table Initiative, in collaboration with the United Way East Ontario and the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre.
This program is designed specifically for women. The BCCG Allotment Garden will become a shared space where women and their families can grow food, collaborate with others, learn new skills, and build a strong network of mutual support.
Once the harvest come in, led by the BCCG, the women will transform the vegetables into hot, nourishing meals. That way, fresh, healthy food is shared with families in the program.
If you’re experiencing food insecurity and you’re interested in joining this BCCG Farm-to-table program to grow and cook fresh food as a collective, then please register here.
Plates full of freshness
Every vegetable picked from our three BCCG gardens is packed with flavor and nutrients. From crisp greens and vibrant tomatoes to hearty root vegetables, our garden can provide the foundation for meals that bring comfort and sustenance to those who need it most. Whether it’s a warming vegetable soup, a fresh stir-fry, or a hearty stew, our BCCG farm-to-table approach will ensure that every bite is filled with goodness.
Plus, food is more than just fuel. It’s also a symbol of care and community. Through this program, locally grown produce will be transformed into wholesome, free meals for families participating in the BCCG Farm-to-table Initiative.
Interested in joining us to grow and cook fresh food with other families? Then, let’s go! Sign up here.
Rooted in kindness
During Christmas 2024, our BCCG team organized a Christmas Dinner Delight in support of our new neighbours living in Bells Corners. The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of the City of Ottawa Civic Event Funding, the Western Ottawa Community Resource Centre, FAMSAC Food Cupboard, Councillor Laine Johnson, the City of Ottawa’s Integrated Neighbourhood Services Team, and contributions from community members. Thanks to the kind sponsorship of local business, Zoom Photobooth, families got their Christmas photos taken. Each family received a printed copy of their photo.
The goal of the event: To ensure that less families go hungry, while creating a spirit of generosity and community connection during the holidays. After getting their Christmas photos taken, families had dinner which included halal chicken, rice, sweet potato, steamed vegetables, fruit salad and cake. Plus, there were free books, winter toques, and gift bags for the children.
The Christmas Dinner Delight event was a pilot for what is possible for sharing complimentary meals with families in Bells Corners. This seed idea has inspired our new BCCG Farm-to-table Initiative. Check out photos below from the Christmas Dinner Delight,.
Plus, we believe that championing food security is a community effort, and local businesses and individuals can play a vital role in helping us grow, cook, and serve complimentary, nutritious meals to those in need. Got an idea of how you can help? Let’s talk fresh food, friends!
A Christmas Dinner Delight
— Sasha Ratnam, Culinary Director
“What a fun and uplifting day organizing all the food preparation and cooking for the first BCCG community dinner! I loved bringing my culinary expertise to this wonderful cause of sharing good food with good neighbours!”
