VIATEC is super excited to donate $1,200 towards one of the most unique campaigns we've seen: FED! We really like the empowerment behind it. And this is enough to provide a whole neighbourhood garden!  We encourage others to contribute or to sign up. 

To learn more about FED, read their news release below.

May 6th, 2020 - For Immediate Release

Victoria, BC – The Food Eco District (FED) has started an emergency response to COVID-19 called My FED Farm. Being the start of the growing season, we will support families, laid off workers and those struggling through this time by providing them with free start up food garden kits.

It is our goal to provide 500 homes in the region with food growing garden kits. While the supply chain of food to the island has not yet been impacted by the pandemic, the mass layoffs present a tougher challenge in the months ahead. On average, 53% of people in Canada currently live paycheck to paycheck and especially in Victoria where rents are high, many are struggling to afford ongoing access to fresh, healthy foods.

We invite you to a live media opportunity as we prepare for our first round of garden deliveries and installations Friday, May 8th at 9 am. Each week, we will deliver these starter gardens throughout Greater Victoria, also providing a food-growing consultation educational resources to ensure each home has the necessary information to build skills and confidence around growing food.

We have had an amazing response from community members who are eager to help get these gardens installed, with over 80 volunteers signing up. In addition, Vancity Credit Union, Peninsula Co-op, and The Big Wheel Foundation have contributed support to fund the first round of installations.

FED is seeking additional financial support to help cover the cost of garden materials so we can reach our goal of providing 500 homes in the region with food gardens. To support this project please check out our crowdfunding page (www.fundrazr.com/MyFEDFarm) where individuals and organizations can sponsor individuals, families, or even neighbourhood garden packages!

Each garden kit contains:

- Choice of 2 – 5 round geotextile planters

- Soil

- 3 plant starts

- 50 – 60 seeds

- Delivery of materials

- Initial consult & info package

- Access to educational resources & #MyFEDFarm chatroom

We have been picked up by multiple media outlets so far, including CBC Radio (www.bit.ly/FEDonCBC).

The Food Eco District (FED) is a local non-profit that is working to create the first sustainable dining district in Canada - a vibrant and distinct neighbourhood in Victoria's downtown core. The District is fast becoming a destination for sustainable food, full of amazing eateries and a growing number of edible gardens. By partnering with the finest restaurants in the district and beyond, FED is planting food, eating local and growing a movement.

Media contact:

Holly Dumbarton

FED Program Manager

info@get-fed.ca

778.584.7423