BC Government provides funding for Food Sovereignty and Transportation for North Coast/Haida Gwaii

A pair of announcements today from the Province of British Columbia will provide investment into a number of communities on the North and Central Coast as well as on Haida Gwaii.

Details towards the funding for three Food Security programs for Gitxaala Nation, Haida Gwaii and Bella Bella were released by MLA Jennifer Rice today.

Gitxaala Nation, Kitkatla - $78,100 to formulate a comprehensive community food-security plan using a food-systems approach, expand the community gardens and install an irrigation system, establish a backyard garden by individual families and a community kitchen at the community centre. 

Haida Wild, Haida Gwaii - $80,000 to get expert assistance installing two smokehouses that have not been functional and increase employment and training opportunities, as well as product offerings. 

Qqs (Eyes) Projects Society, Bella Bella - $75,000 to implement and scale up 25 community recommendations to address food insecurity collected through a community food-security assessment conducted by the organization in fall 2020.

Towards the Investment Ms. Rice observed how the funding will assist communities in self sufficiency themes. 

 “This funding to the Qqs Project Society, Haida Wild, and Gitxaala Nation will not only help food security along the North Coast but will do so in a way that focuses on traditional practices and sustainability. Remote communities often have to rely on foods being flown and shipped in, so supporting these local food projects are important.”

More background on the Indigenous Food Security program is available here.

In the Transportation sector, the Province announced funding for work at the Masset Municipal airport,  with $26,550 coming Masset's way through the BC Air Access Program.

Work to take place includes a temporary runway, taxiway and apron lights.

“For island communities like many in my riding, our local airports provide essential services and are a vital form of transportation for so many,. BCAAP grants are so important to our local air facilities, and I’m excited to see Masset Municipal use the funding to get the upgrades they need.” -- Jennifer Rice, MLA for the North Coast.

More background towards todays aviation investment can be reviewed here.

Further notes of interest from the Legislature can be explored from our archive page.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review.