Buying local also helps to build a sustainable community food system, which can improve the health of the community, the natural environment and individuals.

If you’re not sure where to buy the freshest local produce, try:

• Local farmers’ markets/farm stands: these offer a wide variety of locally grown, seasonal produce. They also give you an opportunity to talk to the people who produce your food – and a visit to the market is a great family outing.
  
• Pick your own: many farms offer you the chance to pick your own at a lower rate than the picked price. It’s a great way to get some exercise along with good local food.
  
• Community gardens give you a chance to grow your own fruits and veggies – even if you live in a condo or apartment. You might get your own plot or share with other people.
  
• Good food boxes or other bulk buying clubs bring people together to buy vegetables and fruits (sometimes other foods are included). The box may be available monthly or weekly depending on your local program.
  
• Fruit tree projects: In many communities, groups go out and pick fruit that would otherwise be wasted (from trees on empty lots or those belonging to people who don’t have the time or inclination to pick it – or don’t know what to do with all that fruit). Usually a portion of the fruit is offered to the tree owner, and sometimes to community agencies such as food banks, as well as to the pickers.
  
• Community kitchens help people come together to cook for themselves and their families. You might be able to learn new skills such as canning and preserving, and there are are opportunities to cook in large quantities and share with others.
  

Seasonally available B.C. fruits

Seasonally available B.C. vegetables

Links:

For a farmers’ market near you click here.