Watari’s Food Security Programs
Actively combat food insecurity in Vancouver by enhancing overall health, fostering strong community connections, promoting food sovereignty, and supporting sustainable local food systems. These programs not only provide immediate relief but also empower individuals with the knowledge and resources to make informed choices about their food, ensuring long-term resilience. By prioritizing locally sourced, culturally relevant foods, Watari strengthens the community’s autonomy, reduces reliance on external food aid, and encourages a deeper connection to the land and its resources.
LatinX Community Kitchen
LatinX Kitchen collaborates with community partners to provide approximately 1,900 hot meals weekly to isolated and underserved tenants in Single Room Occupancy (SRO) housing.
Indigenous Elders Grocery Program
The program delivers weekly groceries to 45 Elders in the DTES. Each package contains fresh vegetables, fruits, canned fish, eggs, meats, crackers and cereals. Run by Indigenous tenants in the DTES, the program ensures the food is culturally appropiate and meets the Elder’s dietary needs.
Access Without Fear Grocery Program
This program promotes food sovereignty by offering culturally appropriate, barrier-free food access to 110 households weekly, benefiting 350 people, particularly those with precarious immigration status. It promotes community autonomy by prioritizing local food and respecting cultural culinary tradtitions.
