Food Self-Sufficiency

The Food Self-Sufficiency program supports Kanaka Bar Indian Band in growing, harvesting, and distributing healthy, locally-sourced foods while strengthening community food security and cultural food traditions.

From community gardens and harvesting initiatives to food distribution programs and emergency food planning, we work to build a resilient food system that respects our land, supports our members, and aligns with our values.

We collaborate with Elders, youth, community harvesters, and external partners to create access to nutritious food, strengthen our food traditions, and support everyone on and off reserve in having reliable, culturally relevant food choices.

Growing & Strengthening
Food Self-Sufficiency

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Ongoing Monitoring & Future Development

Tracking garden yields and seasonal outcomes
Community surveys to guide improvements
Setting goals for long-term food independence
Preparing for Phase 3 expansion

Community Participation & Engagement

Volunteer opportunities throughout the season
Family and youth garden programs
Community harvest celebrations
Strengthening intergenerational learning and cultural ties

Storage, Infrastructure & Resiliency Planning

Cold storage and food preservation infrastructure
Growing storage capacity for community food security
Emergency food stockpiling
Prioritizing climate-resilient crops and sustainable irrigation

Improved Access to Healthy, Local Food

Community food boxes
Harvest distribution for Elders, youth, and families
Partnerships for bulk purchasing and fresh produce access
Programs supporting low-income or vulnerable households

Expansion of Community Food Production

Increasing garden space and improving soil quality
Supporting household gardens through tools, seeds, and workshops
Strengthening the greenhouse program
Encouraging year-round food production

Community Food Programs

Community Garden & Food Forest

We maintain multiple growing spaces that include annual vegetable beds, fruit trees, perennial herbs, berry plants, and traditional food species. These spaces support community harvests, seasonal growing, and learning opportunities for all ages.

Bees & Honey Program

Our beekeeping initiative helps support pollination, boosts garden productivity, and provides small-batch honey for community members.

Egg & Poultry Program

Our laying hens provide fresh eggs for distribution, while teaching youth and families about small-scale food production and animal care.

Bulk Food Support

Seasonally, we distribute fresh produce, fruit, dry goods, teas, and pantry supplies to help support families, Elders, and households in need.

Traditional Foods Program

We strengthen traditional harvesting practices through seasonal outings, Elder-led teachings, food preservation, and sharing opportunities for community members.

Workshops & Training

Throughout the year, we offer hands-on workshops in gardening, soil building, seed saving, canning, drying, foraging, and other food skills that build long-term sustainability.

2020 Food Self-Sufficiency Progress Report

Kanaka Bar & Food Security