Revelstoke’s Food Security Strategy is putting down roots, thanks to more than $13,000 in provincial funding for two work experience participants to develop food security programs with Community Connections Revelstoke.

As part of a seven-month Job Creation Partnership, two workers will gain research, project development, marketing and communications skills as they advance the City of Revelstoke’s Food Security Strategy. The 2014 strategy promotes local food production and highlights the economic, cultural and environmental benefits of a strong local food system. According to the strategy, less than 10% of Revelstoke’s food supply is produced within 250 kilometres.

The two work experience participants will conduct a feasibility study for a food co-op in Revelstoke and establish a mentorship program to help local growers and producers share their knowledge and experience with new farmers and producers. The participants will also support the development of a lawn-to-garden program to encourage landowners to work with landscapers to turn greenspace into food gardens and orchards.

Marketing and communications will be a key focus for the work experience participants. In addition to outreach with local media about food security stories, the participants will engage with local businesses to develop an education campaign to promote the economic benefits of supporting local food producers. This work will help build a foundation for Revelstoke to promote food tourism activities that attract visitors to the region to experience local food and beverages.

Job Creation Partnerships are part of the Employment Program of BC’s Community and Employer Partnerships, which fund projects that increase employability and share labour market information.

The Community and Employer Partnerships program is featured in B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint and provides the supports people need to gain a foothold in the job market. Projects build strong partnerships between industry and labour to connect British Columbians with classroom and on-the-job training, while making it easier for employers to hire the skilled workers they need – when and where they need them.

To date, more than 1,000 job seekers have benefited from work experience and 200 projects have been funded throughout the province.

Quotes:

Michelle Stilwell, Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation –

“Job Creation Partnerships benefit everyone involved. This project is a great example where participants develop important job skills, while helping the community implement their vision for a secure food system that promotes local food production. At the end of this project, the participants will have a strong research and communications skillset and Revelstoke will have made real progress on implementing its food security strategy.”

Melissa Hemphill, food security co-ordinator, Community Connections Revelstoke –

“The Job Creation Partnership project has allowed me to work with interesting people who bring different skills and ideas to the table. Food security is for all people, so a diverse participation has enhanced our program."

Jackie Morris, project participant –

“Through this position I have learned a lot about the food industry and it has given me an opportunity to connect with the community, while building my writing skills.”

Quick Facts:

• The Revelstoke Food Strategy was developed by the Revelstoke Food Security Strategy Committee, a steering group made up of local residents and specialists in food security.
• The local WorkBC Employment Services Centre plays a lead role in connecting eligible job seekers to Job Creation Partnership and Project-Based Labour Market Training opportunities in their community. Once the right match of client-to-project has been found, the effort of the WorkBC Centre continues by providing financial supports and services to ensure success.
• In 2016-17, the ministry has committed to investing $331 million in employment and labour market programs under the Employment Program of BC.
• More than $25.5 million has been invested in Community Employer Partnerships since April 2012.
• The Employment Program of BC is funded by the Province of British Columbia, as well as the Government of Canada, through the Labour Market Development Agreement.
• Funding supports 84 WorkBC Employment Services Centres throughout the province and the four components of the Community and Employer Partnerships fund:
  • Job Creation Partnerships
  • Labour Market Partnerships
  • Project-Based Labour Market Training
  • Research and Innovation

Who is eligible for Community and Employer Partnerships?

• Businesses
• Non-profit organizations
• Crown corporations
• Municipalities, agencies or territorial governments
• Bands/tribal councils
• Public health and educational institutions

Learn More:

For more on the Community Connections Revelstoke: http://community-connections.ca/  

To learn more about the City of Revelstoke Food Security Strategy: http://www.cityofrevelstoke.com/index.aspx?NID=378

For more information on Community and Employer Partnerships: www.workbc.ca/CEP

Find a local WorkBC Employment Services Centre: www.workbccentres.ca

Learn more about the Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation: www.gov.bc.ca/sdsi

For more information on B.C.'s Skills for Jobs Blueprint: www.workbc.ca/skills

To find out more about the BC Jobs Plan: www.engage.gov.bc.ca/bcjobsplan/