Accessing Local Foods in Waterloo Region

Choosing local food (produced in Ontario) has many benefits:

• reduces transport-related air pollution, as locally grown foods travel shorter distances to our tables,
• supports local farmers, food processors and retailers which keeps more dollars in the local economy 
• increases social connections among producers and consumers, which can result in an interest to relearn food preparation and preservation skills. 

Foodland Ontario
The Foodland Ontario program promotes Ontario agriculture products. 
The website contains food facts, produce availability and recipes featuring local foods.

Canadian Organic Growers
The Canadian Organic Growers website provides information on organic food, organic labeling as well as sources of local organic food.

Foodlink Waterloo Region 
Foodlink connects consumers to local foods in Waterloo Region.   The website contains recipes, information on seasonal availability, local food and organic products, as well as a map to help you find local food sources.

Bailey’s Local Foods  
Bailey’s Local Foods is a service that offers people the opportunity to order food from local farmers online, and pick it up weekly at a city location.  The website contains information on how to replicate their buying club model in your neighbourhood or workplace.

Neighbourhood Markets in Waterloo Region
Neigbourhood Markets in Waterloo Region are outdoor food stands using temporary structures to sell food products to the public.  They can be located in community centres, parks, or workplaces.  These markets support local farmers and the rural economy by promoting the purchase of locally grown products.  They also provide increased opportunities for physical activity, social connectivity and healthy eating.

Waterloo Region Community Garden Network
A community garden is a plot of land that is gardened by a group of people to produce fruits, vegetables and/or flowers.  Plots are either rented to individuals for private use, or gardened communally for charity or sharing in the community.  Community gardens can strengthen the sense of community in a neighbourhood by providing a chance for people to meet and work together to develop an area that can be enjoyed by all. By connecting people, these gardens play an important role in building safer neighbourhoods. For more information click on Waterloo Region Community Garden Network.

   Consider hosting a food buying club, a farmer’s market or a garden for your workplace, contact us to find out how!

 
If you would like more information on accessing local foods, please contact Ellen Curitti MSc, RD, Region of Waterloo Public Health Nutritionist, at 519-883-2000 ext. 5294.

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