PEC Good Food Market Marks Three Years of Improving Access to Healthy Food

Date: October 02, 2023

The PEC Fresh Good Food Market, operated through the Prince Edward Learning Centre (PELC), is celebrating its third year of providing affordable, nutritious food to the community while demonstrating measurable health and economic benefits for participants.

Each Wednesday afternoon, PELC’s Picton location transforms into a community market offering fresh fruits and vegetables at wholesale prices. The market is part of a national network supported by Community Food Centres Canada, which aims to improve access to healthy food for people experiencing food insecurity.

The market also participated in Greens Rx, a Canada-wide research initiative examining how improved access to affordable produce impacts people managing chronic health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Participants received a 20-week grocery subsidy to use at the market and shared feedback through surveys conducted before, immediately after, and three months following the program.

Independent analysis showed positive and lasting outcomes. All participants reported that the program helped them stretch their food budgets, purchase more fruits and vegetables, and try a greater variety of nutritious foods.

According to Robyn Cakebread, Market Coordinator at PELC, 56 per cent of participants saw health improvements during the program, with 84 per cent continuing to experience benefits three months later. Nearly 96 per cent said the affordability of fresh produce helped them better manage long-term health conditions.

The market continues to reduce financial barriers, with the average food basket costing 33 per cent less than retail stores. Over the past year, combined sales from its two locations surpassed $100,000, and PELC distributed $22,000 in market gift cards through local agencies supporting residents facing food insecurity.

In addition to its Picton site, the market has expanded to a second location at the County Food Hub, operating every other Saturday morning at Sophiasburgh Central School.

To celebrate its third anniversary, a special market event will take place on Wednesday, October 11, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., featuring a complimentary healthy treat provided by Farmhouse Eats at Hagerman Farms. The first 100 in-person shoppers will receive a free reusable tote.

PELC will also host an Education Fair on Thursday, October 12, from 1 to 3 p.m., bringing together educational institutions and community services to support adults interested in upgrading education, training, or employment opportunities.