It's a course involving food served up to benefit those on a limited budget.
Canadian Mental Health Association Vernon's (CMHA) Foodanomics course equips those on a tight budget with knowledge and skills to maintain a healthy diet.
The program was funded in part through Community Foundation North Okanagan's (CFNO) Smart & Caring Community Grants program, which will accept applications for its 2025 intake from March 1-31.
鈥淲ith rising inflation and increasing food insecurity, many in our community are struggling to access nutritious meals,鈥� said Richard Rolke, fund development and communications manager at CMHA Vernon.
鈥淭he Foodanomics program teaches meal planning, budgeting, shopping strategies, and cooking skills, providing participants with sustainable practices they can carry forward. Additionally, through our Youth Integrated Services Hub, we are able to offer essential food support to local youth facing food insecurity.鈥�
The CFNO grants program awarded $358,465 to 33 organizations in 2024, demonstrating the foundation鈥檚 commitment to supporting diverse and essential community programs.
Close to $300,000 in funding is available in 2025.
鈥淭his grant program allows us to support a wide variety of community needs, from food security and mental wellness to environmental sustainability and education,鈥� said Leanne Hammond, CFNO executive director. 鈥淓very year, we are inspired by the innovative and impactful projects that local organizations bring forward.鈥�
The Smart & Caring Community Grants program is open to registered charities and qualified organizations working to address key issues facing the North Okanagan. The funding supports projects in health, social services, arts and culture, education, environment, and more.
To learn more about the Smart & Caring Community Grants program and how the Community Foundation works with donors to support charities, visit www.cfno.org/smart-caring-community-grants or contact Hammond at 250-542-8655, or Leanne@cfno.org.
