03/12/2024
Women's Employment Resource Announces Conclusion of Food Forward Oxford Program
After three impactful years of nourishing communities through the Food Forward Oxford Program, the Women's Employment Resource (WERC) announces with a mix of gratitude and sadness that the program will be coming to a close.
Due to changes in WERC’s total program funding and resource capacity, WERC has made the difficult decision to conclude the Food Forward Oxford Program. This decision was not made lightly, but we believe it is the right step as we assess our ability to continue delivering impactful employment assistance services to our community.
Since its inception, Food Forward Oxford has been a beacon of hope, ensuring access to healthy and nutritious food choices for individuals and families across Oxford County. Through the generous support of the United Way Oxford and the invaluable partnership with Second Harvest, we have been able to make a significant difference in the lives of many, fostering food security and well-being.
First and foremost, we would like to thank Janine Jones, FFO Program Coordinator, for her dedication and commitment to the program and growing Food Forward beyond all expectations. She was the primary reason the program was as successful as it was. To Cynthia Grant, our original Program Coordinator, we thank you for building the foundation of FFO at its inception. In addition, to our dedicated supporters who championed our application to UWO each year, we are so grateful. Southwestern Public Health (in its inauguration), Oxford Coalition for Social Justice (especially Bryan Smith) and Cycles of Life.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the United Way Oxford for their unwavering support over the past three years. Their funding and collaborative partnership have been instrumental in the success of Food Forward Oxford, and we are truly grateful for the opportunity to work together towards a shared mission.
Additionally, we want to express our heartfelt appreciation to Second Harvest for their steadfast commitment to addressing food insecurity and their instrumental role in providing logistical support in building partnerships with food access donors and providers across Canada. Their collaboration has been vital in strengthening our efforts and expanding our reach within the community.
We also want to extend our gratitude to all the organizations, volunteers, and community members who have been part of this journey. Your dedication and commitment have been the driving force behind the program's success, and we are honored to have collaborated with you.
While we understand that the conclusion of Food Forward Oxford may leave a void in the supply and demand of nutritious food choices across our community, we are confident that the impact of your collective efforts will continue to resonate and inspire positive change.
As we embark on this new chapter, we remain committed to serving our community and exploring innovative ways to address the evolving employment needs of those we are privileged to serve.
Thank you for your continued support.
