SURREY – BC New Democrat MLA Amna Shah says applications are now open for funding that will support Indigenous communities’ work towards greater food security and food sovereignty.

Projects that received this funding last year are currently underway in Surrey.

“The Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre is a cornerstone of support for urban Indigenous families in the Fraser Salish Region, ” said Amna Shah, MLA for Surrey City Centre. “A dedicated food program is essential for ensuring that these families have access to healthy, culturally relevant food.

Indigenous organizations and communities can apply for funding from now until May 20, 2025, by visiting: https://newrelationshiptrust.ca/indigenous-food-security-and-sovereignty.

The Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre is receiving $200,000 for a community food program.

The Indigenous Food Security and Sovereignty Program, launched in 2023, is supporting on- and off-reserve Indigenous-led projects. These projects are doing work to revitalize Indigenous food harvesting, agro-ecosystems, expand capacity, boost local processing and distribution, and increase food supply and security. This work is being done across B.C., with a focus on rural and remote communities.

Since 2023, over 100 projects have been given funding and are underway. This is part of the BC NDP government’s commitments to reconciliation, increased Indigenous participation in agriculture and food systems, and supporting Indigenous-led food sovereignty.