From seeds to actions : addressing food insecurity among low-income families in Kelowna

Rising food costs in Canada increase food insecurity among low-income families. In mid-sized cities such as Kelowna, the situation is further complicated by rapid population growth, an aging demographic, the impacts of climate change on local food production, and an increasing reliance on the global market. This study examined two research questions: Firstly, how the City of Kelowna understands and conceptualizes food security, and what actions and approaches are implemented to address food insecurity among low-income families. Secondly, how do community organizations collaborate with the City of Kelowna to address food insecurity among low-income families? This study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing two main data collection methods. Primary data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with two sets of participants: municipal staff and community actors. Secondary data were collected through document analysis of official plans, reports, and other relevant publications from the City of Kelowna. The data from both sources were then analyzed using a thematic analysis. The findings reveal that the City of Kelowna lacks a dedicated policy, plan, or strategy for food security, treating it as a peripheral concern addressed indirectly through other areas like agriculture, housing, poverty reduction, and climate change. Collaboration between the city and community organizations was inconsistent and fragmented, in contrast to the strong networks among community organizations. This research found that the nature of collaboration between the city and community organizations ranges from no collaboration to indirect support and, in some cases, to active partnerships in which the city acts as a ‘convener’. This research advocates for stronger coordination among municipal and community organizations in order to address food insecurity among low-income families.