Healthy Food Grown for Jane-Finch by Jane-Finch

By Yasmin ParodiThe produce we buy at the grocery store may be marketed as “fresh,” but it can never compare to the socially, and environmentally beneficial veggies that can be found near Jane St., and Steeles Ave., W.The Black Creek Community Farm (BCCF) is the first full-scale urban organic vegetable farm in the neighbourhood. The farm sits on 7 acres of conservation land at Pioneer Village between Jane and Finch and York University.The farm is a place for the community to come together and learn together.The project is good for the land, and the people too.That means healthy, accessible food, grown close to home for people of all income levels.You can buy the organic produce from the farm at the Food Markets, or buy a share in the Summer Harvest and even work in exchange for your share of goods. Remember to inquire early as this is a popular option.Healthy food shouldn’t just be for those who can afford to pay for it. That’s why FoodShare, Afri-Can Food Basket, and Fresh City Farms have teamed up with Everdale to bring farm fresh food closer to you.Support the local farmers who take care of the land that takes care of you and stop by the Driftwood Good Food Market  from July to October at the Driftwood Community Centre (4401 Jane St., Wednesdays 3:00 p.m. - 7:00p.m.If would like to become a Harvest Share Member, you can join the Summer Harvest Food Share - Jane/Finch by paying at the beginning of the season. You can pick up your share every Tuesday from June 3rd - October 28th at the farm located at 4929 Jane St. (just south of Jane and Steeles). Don't forget to register online at www.everdale.org.This “urban farm”is a place of learning and training where youth can reconnect with the story of their food and it will serve as an example to other cities. The BCCF is re-defining urban agriculture, and this is just the beginning.Come visit the farm on Family Farm Day this summer. Details to come in the following Downsview Advocate issues.Follow the Black Creek Community Farm on Facebook for photos, training opportunities, workshops, events and more.This farm is supported and guided by a number of other key organizations:York University’s Faculty of Environmental Studies, Ryerson University’s Centre for Studies in Food Security, and the World Crops Project. The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has made the land available and is supporting the development of the project. everdale.org/blackcreekbccfharvestshare@everdale.org416-393-6381