Getting ready to launch Food Finder Strathcona

Food security is about more than just food; it’s about dignity, well-being and community. That’s why we are proud to introduce Food Finder Strathcona, an interactive food resource map set to be released this spring. Food Finder Strathcona is a new way to connect community members with food resources while breaking down the stigma surrounding food insecurity.  

This project and promotional campaign have been developed by the Food Security Action Table, focused on addressing Community Safety and Well-being's strategic priority: basic needs. After coming together for a series of human-centered design workshops this group began building both the resource map and a storytelling campaign to promote it.  

Why Food Finder Strathcona matters 

Food insecurity is a challenge faced by individuals and families across Strathcona County. It exists on a spectrum, impacting people in different ways and intersecting with physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being. By showcasing a variety of local food resources, Food Finder Strathcona strengthens awareness of the vibrant food landscape within the County, benefiting all community members whether they are experiencing food insecurity or not. This project also fosters connection through storytelling, sharing local food stories such as a teen’s experience with food insecurity, challenging misconceptions and helping build a more compassionate community. 

A community effort 

This project is community led and driven. Through collaboration and co-design, members of the Action Table have transformed the initial concept of a food asset map and storytelling initiative into a fully developed tool and campaign. Together they worked through many complex conversations and decisions to define the different resource categories and how to best represent the information.  

By bringing together the diverse perspectives of its members, the Action Table has created a comprehensive and user-friendly resource. Once launched, community members will be able to use Food Finder Strathcona to find community food support programs, community gardens, grocery stores and markets, local food producers and food-related learning opportunities.  
 
Through this work, the Action Table aims to improve food security in Strathcona County and build a stronger, more connected community. 

Stay tuned for our official launch 

Stay tuned for more details on the official launch of Food Finder Strathcona and how your organization can participate. In the meantime, if you have a food-related resource, program or class that you would like to have added to the map, please email julia.tran@strathcona.ca for more information. 

Food Security Action Table 

Members of the Food Security Action Table include Strathcona Food Bank, Alberta Health Services, Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church, Sherwood Park Strathcona County Primary Care Network, Boys and Girls Club Strathcona County and Strathcona County.