The original York Region Food Charter was published in 2013 by York Region Food Network and the York Region Food Charter Working Group. This Charter was a statement of values to guide food and agriculture policy and action in York Region. It was developed by a broad spectrum of organizations, residents and institutions and promoted collaboration between sectors on food and agriculture issues in the region.
In 2022 there were calls from the York Region Food Council and working group members to update the Charter so it reflected our growing communities. Much has changed since 2013, including the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, the increasing pressures of climate change on the food system, a global pandemic and more.
In 2023, the York Region Food Council started the process to update the Charter, focusing on making the Charter reflect the voices, needs, and priorities of diverse communities and the current challenges facing the agri-food sector.
Over the course of 10 months, five rounds of community consultations were conducted using a mix of surveys, focus groups, and public events. Nearly 300 community members and sector representatives contributed their insights.
The updated York Region Food Charter was finalized and adopted by the York Region Food Council in December 2024.
The full York Region Food Charter can be accessed here