Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, March is National Nutrition Month. With this year's theme being Nourish to Flourish, the links between food, good health, emotional resilience, and social connections cannot be underestimated.
Mr. Speaker, Food Bank Canada, in collaboration with Nutrition North, is planning a promotional tour of the Sahtu region in April. This initiative will bring together representatives to meet and engage with leaders, community members, on the critical topic of food security and explore how the Sahtu region can position itself to address its unbearable high cost of living challenges.
Mr. Speaker, the vision extends beyond immediate relief. Aside from ideas of setting up a food bank distribution centre in the regional hubs, the dream of having community food bank centres in each of the Sahtu communities is a goal we envision. These centres would not only provide essential food supplies but would also allow for traditional foods to be available to the community members, honouring our cultural heritage while addressing immediate needs. This approach aligns perfectly with Food Banks Canada and the northern food security program which supports Indigenous and community-led initiatives to promote food sovereignty in the remote and Indigenous communities. Their goal is to fund the sustainable programs that increase food security and support in building networks to share knowledge and resources.
Mr. Speaker, I am encouraged by the collaborative approach that we have taken working with local communities to develop solutions that address specific needs. The commitment to understanding, proposing solutions, and advocating for policy change represents a comprehensive approach to tackling food insecurity in the North.
In closing, as we observe National Nutrition Month, let us remember that true nourishment encompasses not only physical health but the overall flourish of our communities. The planned activities for the Sahtu region represent an important step towards ensuring all citizens have access to nutritious and culturally-appropriate food. Mahsi.
Thank you, Member from the Sahtu. Members' statements. Member from Mackenzie Delta.
