Who We Are

Our programs go from seed to plate—engaging a network of farmers, seed growers, researchers, food system advocates, policymakers, community partners, chefs, and eaters. Together, we are creating food systems in BC that are strong, sustainable, and resilient. Our programs celebrate local food and connect people with the farmers who grow it. We support BC farmers to use local seed and to grow food in ways that mitigate climate change and protect biodiversity.

As an organization working within the food movement, we recognize that our mission will only be fully realized when justice, equity, and inclusion are experienced by equity-deserving voices. Our staff and board commit to doing the necessary work to ensure FarmFolk CityFolk is an organization that not only strives for sustainable food systems in BC, but also makes equity, diversity, and inclusion inextricable parts of that mission. As such, we are actively seeking ways to use our networks, relationships, and resources to amplify the work of Indigenous and other equity-deserving food leaders and seed sovereignty advocates that have been historically marginalized in our colonial food system. We strive to learn from and be proactive allies for all farm folks and city folks, including Indigenous, Black, Persons of Colour, LGBTQIA2S+, persons with disabilities, and people who hold otherwise traditionally marginalized identities. As an organization, we must reflect the diversity of the sector we serve and our collective constituents throughout BC. We have a lot to learn and a long way to go. Please join us on the journey.

We strive for more resilient, productive, and viable food systems in which farmers are supported to grow their food in ways that mitigate climate change and protect biodiversity. To that end, we support regenerative and climate-friendly agriculture in livestock and crop production. We believe that all farmers across all of BC’s agricultural sectors—livestock, poultry, dairy, vegetable, berry, nut, and fruit – can positively contribute to resilient, low-carbon, food systems in BC. Our programming offers regionally-specific support and engages with farmers across the province—from Vancouver Island to the Kootenays, the Southern Okanagan to the North.

Resilient food systems start with resilient seeds. We support local seed production and seed security by providing seed education, skills training, and infrastructure to BC farmers and growers to increase production of high-quality seed. Seed security will allow BC farmers to grow food from seed that has been bred for local conditions, adapted to the local climate, requires fewer carbon-intensive inputs (e.g. synthetic fertilizers), and protects crop diversity.

Collaborative – Collaboration is key to who we are and what we do. We nurture authentic, respectful relationships with a diversity of partners and people in order to broaden our reach, achieve stronger outcomes and strengthen sustainable food systems.

Courageous – We have the courage to tackle big problems, try innovative things, and have difficult conversations. We lead with integrity and conviction.

Joyful – We take pride in the positive, solutions-based work we do. We are consciously optimistic, motivated by possibility, and committed to upholding our vision. We celebrate our accomplishments and the contributions of farmers, ranchers, chefs, producers, food systems advocates, and eaters throughout BC.

Inclusive – We apply diverse perspectives in our work which fuels innovation, deepens relationships, and makes us a better organization. We believe everyone should be seen, heard, valued, and empowered to succeed. We come together as a force for good to serve our members, stakeholders and communities.