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The 5th edition of Équiterre’s Schools Take Root project has been kicked off, inviting schools (primary and secondary), childcare centres and community organizations from across Quebec to get involved in the sustainable food movement by providing their youth with a fundraising campaign that puts local organic vegetables on a pedestal.
The project, which equips participants to raise funds through the sale of baskets of organic vegetables, is a unique opportunity to educate youth and their families about healthy, local and sustainable food, while at the same time raising money!
Registration will be open until September 7, 2020.
Why schools take root at this time?
In the context of the COVID-19 health crisis and the climate crisis, there is an urgent need to reorient our food systems to make them more sustainable, prosperous, rooted in the region and healthier, which implies:
- putting more fruits and vegetables, more vegetable protein, less meat and fewer processed foods on our plates;
- choosing foods from local organic farms and local distribution methods;
- encouraging agricultural producers and artisanal processors in Quebec by promoting local distribution methods throughout the year.
the wonder of local organic vegetables
On delivery day, which takes place in October or November (depending on the availabilities of the farmer and the establishment, and according to the health regulations in place), the youth welcome their local farmer to their school/daycare/establishment.
“It’s incredible to see how proud the youth are to have their farmer and all of his or her produce at their establishment,” states Murielle Vrins, Schools Take Root Project Manager. “All of a sudden, vegetables become a lot more exciting and they can’t wait to show them off to their parents and to bring them home to make dinner with their families.”
PREPARATION STARTS NOW
Despite the pandemic, family farmers began preparing their organic vegetables for Schools Take Root early this spring.
“We saw an explosion of interest in the Schools Take Root project last year, with 115 participating establishments from almost all regions of Quebec. There is an incredible appetite to educate youth about the importance of health and sustainable food, as promoted in the Canada’s Food Guide. Schools Take Root is a fantastic opportunity to do just that, and to raise funds for your establishment at the same time.”, added Murielle.
So go ahead, encourage your school, childcare centre or community organization to join the Schools Take Root movement! Feel free to send them this informational video and one-pager.
Register your establishment today!
QUESTIONS?
Have a look at our Frequently Asked Questions or contact us: ecolesenracinees@equiterre.org.
