Supporting Local Food Systems with Vancity Credit Union

Posted on Monday, 26 July 2021 under Stories

We have been a recipient of Vancity Credit Union’s generosity throughout our history thanks to their commitment to promoting resilience in our communities. Through our partnership, we have been able to support sustainable, local food systems capable of withstanding climate change impacts across British Columbia.

Vancity has been an incredible supporter of our work since the beginning. Our roots are in the cooperative movement and we share a strong values alignment with the credit union. Their commitment to community giving, local food, and the environment has created a significant impact over the years.

Vancity has long been a supporter of Feast of Fields and we are excited to partner with them once again in 2021. Feast of Fields creates farm-to-table connections and highlights climate-friendly initiatives local participants undertake throughout the year. As a Gold sponsor for this year’s Metro Vancouver Feast, Vancity’s contribution plays a significant part in bringing sustainable food systems champions together in a space for learning and celebrating.

“The event has always been a great opportunity for our staff to engage with the community and connect with some key players in the sector who are aligned with our mission to create a clean and fair world,” says Vancity Community Investment Associate, Krista Loewen.

vendor at a fundraising event

Vancity Credit Union team during our 2018 Vancouver Island Feast of Fields event. Photo courtesy of Cassidy Nunn.

A number of Vancity members, including Kula Kitchen and Kindred Cultures, have and will be participating in Feast of Fields this year. As local businesses with deep connections to their communities, both companies recognize the benefits of their Vancity membership.

“We bank with Vancity because of their commitment to our community and the actions they have taken to support small businesses. Our experience since day one has been incredible, we feel valued as a member,” says Asha Wheeldon, Founder of Kula Foods.

Over the past three years, we have received funding from Vancity for our Climate Solutions program. Through this work, we identify and support agricultural strategies and consumer habits that help mitigate climate change.

Learn more about our work with Climate Solutions

Vancity has committed to a number of actionable initiatives towards its goal of being net-zero by 2040. The Credit Union recognizes the role farming and food systems play in mitigating climate change and strengthening community systems. Loewen says their climate and equity commitments have been informed by members and communities they serve. Their responses to climate change are grounded in helping businesses decarbonize through local investments.

“We recognize that everyone has a role to play in making more sustainable choices. At Vancity, we look for ways to improve conditions for businesses and individuals to thrive in an economy that is good for people and the planet,” says Loewen.

Learn more about Vancity’s work towards a climate transition on their website.