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Two generations ago, people ate food grown locally. Now, that's all changed so it's important to remind people to buy their food, where possible, from local producers.

That's the word from Leigh Butler of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, who joined Huron-Bruce MPP Carol Mitchell, agriculture minister, in awarding a $27,500 Trillium grant to the Grey Bruce Agriculture and Culinary Association.

The presentation was made at the Lazy J Ranch Honey Products store in Kincardine Friday morning. Owners Guy and Gail Anderson sell locally-grown products from their store, and he is former chairman of the culinary association.

Butler was pleased to be part of presenting the grant to this group which is helping to build healthy and vibrant communities. He said the Trillium Foundation gives out $120 million per year in grants and he was glad to see some of the money go to the culinary association.

The funding will be used to hire a volunteer co-ordinator for the program, he said, allowing the group to build a volunteer base that will enable it to deliver on its mandate to bring locally-grown food to everybody's table in Grey-Bruce. The co-ordinator will formalize the volunteer program and make community connections to increase volunteer leadership.

The culinary association puts out an annual map, telling people where to purchase locally-grown products. Secretary/treasurer Ruth Henrick said the new map should be back from the printers next week and will be distributed immediately.

"We all know that locally-grown food is better for our health, finances and community," said Mitchell. "This grant will allow the Grey Bruce Agriculture and Culinary Association to spread the word, about the impressive local food products and services available within Bruce and Grey counties, to area residents and the thousands of tourists who visit each year."

"We are delighted to receive this funding," said Jenny Amy, chairperson of the culinary association, "and we are pleased that the Ontario government continues to recognize the importance of local food for Ontario. More specifically, support for Grey and Bruce counties which have at their core vibrant communities with sustainable agricultural-based rural economies. We look forward to continuing our partnership."

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Friday, July 16, 2010