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Saugeen Shores 'Food Box' Co-ordinators, Veronica and Mike Byers

The 'Good Food Box' initiative gives everyone the chance to acquire fresh fruits and vegetables at a more-than-reasonable cost.

There are 17 locations in Grey and Bruce Counties and the need in each has been on the rise.  "We are up to 61 boxes," says Co-ordinator, Veronica Byers. 

"Each box has at least 12 different items of vegetables and fruits," says dietician Marlene Van Eedem Petersman.  "We try to ensure that everyone gets dark green vegetables, a starch and, of course, fruit.  Most of the produce, except for tropical fruits such as bananas, are purchased locally from Ontario greenhouses."

Each box costs $15 and orders are placed through Wardrop Pharmasave in Port Elgin.  The concept of the idea is to provide fresh produce to families that may not be able to afford it otherwise.

"We have a list of people in need," says Mike Byers,  "and we also have donors who buy one or more boxes that are then distributed anonymously. The only criteria for individuals purchasing their own boxes is that they pick them up.  If they are donated however, we will arrange to have them delivered."

The 'Good Food Box' is now working to co-ordinate with various organizations, churches and individuals to help purchase and/or subsidize hampers of food.

"We actually have some local small businesses and individuals who purchase three or more boxes on a donation basis," explains Mike Byers.  "People don't realize how many in this community are going without fresh fruit and vegetables because they can't afford them."

While the 'Good Food Box' is mainly directed toward those who cannot otherwise afford the cost of fresh produce, anyone is able to purchase.

The Good Food Box is located at Maple Square Mall in Port Elgin and they are always looking for volunteers on the second Thursday of each month to pack the boxes.

For anyone who would like more information call:  Byers at 519-832-5874 or for anyone who would like to donate:  drop by Pharmasave in Port Elgin and talk to Trevor Wardrop. 

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Tuesday, December 13, 2011