In my role as the Executive Director, I endeavour to support the staff in delivering our programs and services and ensure we work on behalf of and are guided by the community. No two days are the same but at the end of each day I leave the organization knowing we did some good work for the community.

Favourite fruit/vegetable: Parsnip

It is a relatively unknown root vegetable that is very resilient, tasting even better after a light frost.

(He/Him)

I have been with CHEP since 1997. I am currently the program coordinator for Collective Kitchens, Chefs in Training, Nutritional Package for Seniors, and the Emergency Food Hampers.  Since I have been with CHEP so long, I am lucky enough to see the long-term changes that we have made in the community and in individuals.  Seeing these results has really made me realize how a small organization can do so much good.

Favourite fruit/vegetable: 
Strawberries

I can eat about 2 cups of strawberries (compared to around 8 grapes) before it effects my blood sugar levels.

(She/Her)

In my role as the Good Food Box Coordinator, I receive and fulfill Good Food Box orders. Every two weeks, a group of volunteers and I work together to pack hundreds of boxes of affordable and fresh produce for distribution all over Saskatoon. I enjoy providing people an alternative way to access healthy and fresh food at a reasonable price. I also love meeting and working with generous volunteers who make this program possible.

Favourite fruit/vegetable: Strawberries

They are as sweet as candy and each one is a beautiful work of art.

(He/Him)

In my role with the Centralized Kitchen, I provide bagged lunches to school students throughout the city. I love being part of this organization, helping to make healthy food accessible to everyone.

Favourite fruit/vegetable: Sweet Potatoes

They are so versatile in both sweet and savoury dishes.

My role with CHEP involves providing gardening support and resources to community gardens and presentations for community organizations whose clients are interested in urban agriculture. I love talking about gardening and inspiring others to garden, so I really enjoy this role!

Favourite fruit/vegetable: 
Plantains

Ripe, green, fried, roasted or boiled these veggies are delicious and remind me of my homeland Jamaica.

My role as Indigenous Food Sovereignty Facilitator is new and I am excited to develop this new initiative. I am a member of White Bear First Nations and grew up in the Regina area. I moved to Saskatoon two years ago and got married during the pandemic. I love being outside, music, and having interesting, imaginative, and philosophical conversations around removing taboos surrounding discussions on decolonization.

Favourite fruit/vegetable: 

I support the askîy project, and other urban agriculture initiatives. In pursuing my love for growing vegetables, I’ve interned and volunteered on farms and learning centres in Texas, Guelph, and Florida, and I’m looking forward to learning alongside interns and community members as we tend the land together. I first learned about CHEP’s work through discovering Seedy Saturday as an Agriculture student at the U of S, and since then I’ve participated in many of CHEP’s programs and partnerships. I believe some of the best conversations happen in kitchens and gardens, and around food being enjoyed together.

Favourite fruit/vegetable:
The whole cucurbit family

How can you pick just one? Cucumbers, melons, and squash all have a special place in my heart.

I have been the Accounting Coordinator for CHEP since 2012. I love working with CHEP because it is an opportunity to truly make a difference in someone’s day or life. I have been lucky enough to see how our programs have truly made an impact on people’s lives whether just in that moment or on an ongoing basis.

Favourite fruit/vegetable:
Mushrooms

They can be used in so many ways and are delicious.

(She/Her)

In my role as Driver, I distribute food for our many programs and services and work at the fresh food and mobile markets. Getting good food to people is important and enjoyable work.

 Favourite fruit/vegetable: Kohlrabi

It has a nice texture and taste and is very good for you.

(He/Him)

In my role as Driver’s Assistant, I support the bulk buying program for schools and the Good Food Box. I have been a grounds keeper at Station 20 West for several seasons.

Favourite fruit/vegetable: Pineapple

Wonderful taste and lots of juice.

In my role as Research Support Assistant, I conduct and contribute to research initiatives that assist in meeting CHEP’s goals as an organization. The research ranges from funding partners to educational programs to community initiatives. I also provide support to the community markets and askiy garden project when needed. I grew up in an area referred to as “Ontario’s Garden” and have always had an interest in local food systems. My educational background is in environmental health and sustainability, which sparked my passion in food security.

Favourite fruit/vegetable: Potato

The potato is so versatile and it taste amazing in every form!

My role with CHEP involves providing bagged lunches for elementary schools across the city. I really enjoy the role of the centralized kitchen because it suits me as I have a passion for cooking, and eating healthy. I like that I’m able to make a difference within the community.

Favourite fruit/vegetable:
Avocado

Because of its creamy texture. I love guacamole and also use it as a spread. I like to add it to Salads and smoothies.