Partnership with the provincial government and Wolfville Farmers’ Market helps the Acadia community discover local products
Thanks to an initiative from the Nova Scotia provincial government, Acadia students, staff, and faculty will get a chance to try out some of the incredible local products available at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market.
5,000 Nova Scotia Loyal vouchers worth $10 will be made available to the Acadia community to spend at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market through the end of February 2025.
Cultivating change
The partnership will grow the already-fruitful relationship between Acadia and the Wolfville Farmers’ Market (WFM). Dr. Ashlee Cunsolo (Provost and Vice President, Academic) says the relationship, and this new collaboration “isn't just about food—it's about nourishing people and community. It's about creating a space where students can learn, where local businesses can thrive, and where we all can come together to support one another, while ensuring access to fresh and healthy local food.”
The DeWolfe Building, which Acadia is proud to lease to the WFM for just one dollar a year, holds the market and acts as a cherished gathering place for the Acadia and broader Wolfville community. The WFM is also a valued supplier to Acadia Dining Services and Acadia students enjoy produce grown at local farms served in Wheelock Dining Hall throughout the year. WFM also plays a critical role in supporting community-based solutions for student food security. A variety of initiatives, like the Soup and Sides program started by Community Development students, builds community and provides access to local food thanks to the partnership between Acadia, the Town of Wolfville, and the Wolfville Farmers’ Market.
“This partnership is a model for what's possible when universities, government and communities come together. So, let's keep supporting each other. And let's keep nurturing this wonderful partnership that's bringing so much good to our community,” says Cunsolo.
Supporting local growers and businesses
Nova Scotia Loyal is an economic development program promoting local growers, harvesters, crafters and manufacturers to help Nova Scotians discover the wealth of local businesses rooted in our province.
Buying local not only strengthens the local economy, but it also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, improves food security, and nourishes community. The province of Nova Scotia spoke about the program in their press release about the partnership.
Get ready to buy local!
Students, staff and faculty can pick up their vouchers at Acadia Residence Life, the ASU Food Cupboard, and the Acadia Sustainability Office. Contact sustainability@acadiau.ca for more information.
The NS Loyal booth will visit the Students’ Union Building this fall and winter with prizes and vouchers. Stay tuned for the dates they’ll be on campus and be sure to visit the booth to get in on their additional giveaways!
Acadia students, staff and faculty can also save 10% on online orders through Wolfville Farmers’ Market 2 Go. Visit WFM2Go to learn more.