CANADA, August 17 - Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food, has released the following statement about how choosing to buy B.C. products can help farmers in communities suffering from wildfires:
“As families, workers and small businesses in Summerland and across the Okanagan continue to respond to and recover from wildfires and evacuations, British Columbians have a simple way to show their support for affected farmers: Look for local and to Buy BC.
“Summerland and the Okanagan are home to farms, orchards, food producers, as well as wineries, cideries, breweries and distilleries, that support thousands of jobs and contribute enormously to the economic and social fabric of their communities.
“Many of these businesses have faced evacuations, road closures, smoke, disrupted operations and lost business during one of the most important periods of their year.
“British Columbians do not need to travel into an affected community to support it. We can make an extra effort to support products from communities affected by the wildfires from wherever we are in B.C. When grocery shopping, we can look for locally grown fruit, produce and food products. If we are going out for dinner, we can ask for a Summerland or Okanagan wine, cider, beer or spirit. If we are visiting a private liquor store, grocery store or BC Liquor store, we can look for products from the affected region.
“When shopping, the Buy BC label is one of the easiest ways to identify products that are grown, raised or processed in British Columbia.
“Every local purchase helps keep British Columbians working, supports farmers and producers, strengthens local communities and, especially right now, in places like Summerland, helps businesses continue operating and supports their recovery.
“You don’t have to be in Summerland to stand with Summerland. Whether you’re dining out in Vancouver, shopping in Victoria or choosing something local anywhere in British Columbia, supporting products from Summerland and the Okanagan is a simple way to stand behind the people and businesses working through an extraordinarily difficult period.”
Amelia Boultbee, MLA for Penticton-Summerland, said:
“I’m so heartened to see the outpouring of support for people in my community. The wildfire service, first responders, volunteers and all those keeping us in their thoughts are appreciated. If you’re looking to support families here, when buying a gift or purchasing wine or cider, think Penticton-Summerland first. Many of our local retailers have online shops and could use your help right now. I’m thankful to the minister and government for the support they’re providing to our community.”
