An Interview with Nick Saul of CFCC
We are so proud to partner with Community Food Centres Canada, a national non-profit that works to improve the health and well-being of low-income Canadians through the power of food. We donate one serving of fresh produce to CFCC every time someone orders online or through our app – so you can give back just by ordering your favourite salad for lunch.
We recently caught up with CFCC President Nick Saul, to pick his brain about good food, community building and how YOU can make a difference.
What was your inspiration for creating Community Food Centres Canada?
We wanted to build and support vibrant, dignified spaces where people who are marginalized and get told they don’t amount to much could come and have a really good meal, connect with their neighbours, get involved, and know they’re not alone.
What’s the difference between a Community Food Centre and a food bank?
Community Food Centres use food as a tool for building better health, better skills, better connections and, ultimately more inclusive communities. They’re community centres where all the programs start with really good food.
Community Food Centres are vibrant, welcoming places where people can come when they need help with food, and where they can find all kinds of ways to get involved, whether it’s joining a community kitchen or gardening session, getting their kids involved in an after-school program, joining a social justice club or a campaign. They prioritize offering food that’s nutritious and delicious and providing opportunities for leadership and involvement.
How can access to good food impact people’s lives?
Access to good food impacts our lives in every single way. It give us energy. It improves our health. Sharing good food connects us to others. It’s how we share our culture, our history. Knowing how to prepare food that makes you feel good gives you confidence and makes you feel empowered.
In your experience, what are some of the ways in which lack of access to food affects people’s quality of life?
Turn the last question upside down. If you can’t afford good food, you’re stressed, your health suffers, you’re isolated, your life is shorter. Study after study shows the lasting negative impacts of poverty and food insecurity on people’s physical and mental health.
Why was a partnership with Mad Radish a good fit for CFCC?
Because in our own ways, we are both working to democratize access to healthy food for Canadians. And that’s really important. We’re really thankful to the Mad Radish team for their mad support so far, and we’re excited for the future.
How can people get involved in their communities?
Get interested in something, anything. And then get off your couch and do something about it. Volunteer, fight for fair wages, march for women’s rights. If food and health are your thing, join us! Start by subscribing to our monthly e-newsletter for updates on what we’re up to – events, campaigns, volunteer opportunities, etc. — and how you can get involved. Or make a donation that will help us build and support more neighbourhood spaces where people can grow, cook, share, and advocate for good food for all.
