Joanna Nefs has been appointed for a six-month term as acting chair of the Mental Health Review Board, starting Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

The review board is an independent tribunal established under the Mental Health Act. The board conducts panel hearings for patients admitted by physicians and detained involuntarily in provincial mental-health facilities in a manner consistent with the principles of fundamental justice and Section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Nefs holds a master in public policy degree, 2017-18; a juris doctor, 2008-11; and a bachelor’s degree in political science, 2006-08, all from York University.

From 2020 until 2024, Nefs was the CEO of AIDE Canada, a national initiative funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. It focused on delivering information and resources to people with developmental disabilities and diagnosed with autism and their families.

From 2018 until 2020, Nefs was executive director of the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and at the United Nations, working on projects with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and at the UN Secretariat for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. From 2012 until 2018, Nefs was the assistant Crown attorney at the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General.

From January until May 2018, Nefs taught a course at Osgoode Hall law school about representing clients with mental illnesses and addictions.

Since 2020, Nefs has been a member and alternate chair of B.C.’s Mental Health Review Board.

Langley and Victoria, BC / March 24, 2025 – British Columbia farmers and ranchers will gain invaluable human resource (HR) support, courtesy of a new initiative delivered by AgSafe BC.

AgSafe and the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF) have heard from BC’s agriculture sector that they don’t have the resources and support they need to effectively manage HR. Producers have expressed the need for assistance in areas such as recruitment, retention, performance management, compensation, compliance, and more. Recognizing this gap, IAF proposed the BC Agriculture HR program to AgSafe. Building on an innovative program previously delivered by go2HR in the tourism industry, IAF connected with AgSafe, who work directly with farmers and employers. AgSafe was already hearing similar needs in the sector regarding HR advice, alongside their ongoing work in Agricultural Safety practices.

The BC Agriculture Human Resources Advisory Service, inspired by a successful program in the tourism and hospitality sector, will serve as an “HR on Speed Dial” for the province’s agricultural community. Led by Project Manager Kaitlyn Janzen, who boasts extensive experience in both agriculture and human resources, a team of Regional HR Consultants will be available to agricultural producers for consultations and on-demand assistance via telephone, email, and digital meetings.

The result is HR support services designed specifically for farmers who are also employers. The initiative is funded by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement, as part of a suite of Agricultural Labour initiatives delivered through IAF.

Background
A recent study by the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council revealed that British Columbia’s agriculture sector has the highest vacancy rate of any province, at 12%, with over 4,800 positions estimated to have gone unfilled in 2021.

In 2024, with the help of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food and stakeholders in the agriculture industry, IAF identified a gap in service for BC agriculture producers: Human Resource knowledge and assistance. Utilizing the recently secured Agriculture and Food Workforce Development Initiative funds, the IAF Team identified an HR tool used in the tourism industry during Covid-19, delivered by go2HR. Once the right tool was found, the IAF team realized that AgSafe BC was the ideal organization to collaborate with to deliver the program. Having worked with AgSafe to deliver the Mental Health Supports Program, IAF was confident that AgSafe was uniquely positioned to deliver the BC Agriculture Human Resources Advisory Service.

This project is supported by the Agriculture and Food Workforce Development Initiative, a fund designed to support BC’s agriculture industry in providing a stable and increasing food supply through targeted efforts to recruit and retain a sufficient workforce to meet the labour needs of the industry. Funding for this initiative has been provided by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement. The initiative is delivered by IAF.

Other Agricultural Labour Resources
The BC Agriculture Human Resources Toolkit, launching this Spring, will provide essential forms, checklists, templates, and other resources that reflect HR best practices. By leveraging existing resources from go2HR and the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council, the toolkit will aid agricultural employers in recruiting, retaining, and managing employees effectively.

Learn more about AgSafe’s Mental Wellness Resources: https://agsafebc.ca/mental-wellness/

Source: Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council. 2023. B.C. Agriculture labour market information and forecast 2023-2030.

Learn more about the IAF-delivered Agriculture and Food Workforce Development Initiative: https://iafbc.ca/programs/#awdi

Quotes
Wendy Bennett, AgSafe Executive Director:
“AgSafe has provided health and safety resources to B.C. farmers and ranchers for over 30 years. We have heard from employers that they need more human resource support. We are proud to launch this new initiative to give the agriculture industry human resource and staffing advice at their fingertips.”

Paula Baxter, Chair of the British Columbia Landscape and Nursery Association, Vice Chair of AgSafe, and Owner of Exemplar Horticulture:
“People are the cornerstone of the landscape and nursery sectors in British Columbia. The HR Support initiative will foster a robust sector by enhancing employee recruitment, training, and retention.”

Jack DeWit, IAF Board of Directors Chair:
“IAF is proud to have been a key part of the development of this critical program for BC agriculture. Through this program, BC’s farmers and ranchers will be able to find the resources they need to support their businesses and, in turn, allow food production to thrive. Our team did a lot of leg work to get this program off the ground and are so pleased to have partnered with AgSafe to deliver it to producers. We are confident AgSafe is the right organization to support producers through this program.”

About AgSafe
AgSafe is the non-profit health and safety association for agricultural producers in British Columbia, providing site-specific consultation and on-site safety education, as well as online workplace safety resources and materials. AgSafe is also the COR Certifying Partner for B.C.’s agricultural and associated industries and offers a Certificate of Recognition (COR) program for large and small employers. For more information about AgSafe services or agriculture-related workplace health and safety, call 1-877-533-1789 or visit www.AgSafeBC.ca. Follow AgSafe on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About IAF
The Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF) delivers programs and services to support a thriving agriculture and food sector in British Columbia.

With more than 25 years of experience, IAF is recognized as the leading provider of high-quality and cost-effective program delivery services for the agriculture and food sector in BC. Since 1996, we have committed more than $300 million to industry on behalf of the federal and provincial governments. www.iafbc.ca
Follow IAF on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and sign up for the newsletter: Growing Today

Media Contacts
Cheryl Davie, Communications and Media Specialist, AgSafe BC
604-308-5775 | communications@agsafebc.ca

Kelsi Stiles, Director of Communications and Programs, IAF
250-940-6150 | communications@iafbc.ca

Surrey, BC – Western Community College (WCC) marked a historic milestone today with a rebranding announcement, exciting expansion plans and a $100,000 scholarship announcement at a press conference held at Surrey’s Health & Technology District. The event, hosted by Board Chair Anita Huberman, brought together government officials, industry leaders, and community partners to celebrate WCC’s growing impact on education, workforce development, and economic prosperity.

The event featured a video unveiling of WCC’s bold new brand identity, symbolizing innovation, excellence, and limitless opportunities for students. A confetti drop marked the momentous occasion as WCC outlined its vision for new learning hubs, student housing, and expanded career-focused programs designed to meet the evolving needs of industry and students alike.

Empowering Students, Driving Economic Growth

WCC Board Chair Anita Huberman emphasized the college’s commitment to accessible, industry-aligned education that equips students with real-world skills. The expansion plans include:

• State-of-the-Art Campus (Opening September 2025) – A cutting-edge learning environment designed to foster innovation and career readiness.
• Luxury Hotel & Restaurant (Opening December 2025) – A hands-on training facility for students in hospitality and business.
• Tower Four at the Health & Technology District – A collaborative space connecting students with industry leaders.
• Tower Five – Student Housing Development – Addressing the critical need for affordable student accommodations.

“We are not just responding to industry needs; we are shaping the workforce of tomorrow,” said Board Chair Huberman. “Education is a powerful force for change—one that uplifts students, strengthens our economy, and builds a thriving community.”

Gurpal Dhaliwal, President: “At Western Community College, we believe education is the foundation of progress. This rebrand is more than a new look—it’s a renewed commitment to excellence, adaptability, and creating opportunities that align with the evolving needs of our students and industries.”

Rimpy Dhaliwal, Registrar: “This rebranding marks a defining moment for Western Community College, reinforcing our commitment to student success and industry collaboration. As we expand and innovate, we continue to shape a learning environment that empowers students and strengthens communities.”

Government & Community Support

Dignitaries including Chief of the Semiahmoo First Nations Harley Chappell, City of Surrey Councillor Linda Annis, BC Ministry of Advanced Education Critic Korky Neufeld, and Surrey School Board Trustee Gary Tymoschuk expressed their strong support for WCC’s role in workforce development and economic growth.

“The private education sector is a key contributor to Surrey’s economy,” said Neufeld. “By investing in skills training, student housing, and industry partnerships, WCC is ensuring that students graduate job-ready and contribute meaningfully to our communities.”

$100,000 in Scholarships for Surrey Students

As part of its ongoing commitment to education, WCC announced $100,000 in scholarships for students in healthcare, child & family support, hospitality, accounting, and legal studies. These scholarships aim to remove financial barriers and empower young talent in Surrey.

Looking Ahead

With its rebranding, new developments, and scholarship initiatives, WCC is reinforcing its position as a leader in private education and a catalyst for economic transformation. The new website and WCC Merchandise Store will officially launch in mid-April, further enhancing the student experience at WCC’s city-building campuses.

Indigenous women with complex mental-health and substance-use challenges in and around Surrey will soon have access to safe, culturally supportive housing and wraparound services to help them with their recovery.

“Combining culturally appropriate and trauma-informed care with safe, secure housing is essential in helping Indigenous women heal and rebuild their lives,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “These new complex-care housing units offer the supports needed to help people stabilize and improve their well-being, all under one roof and for as long as they need.”

Starting in April 2025, complex-care housing services will be available for 10 Indigenous women living in Surrey with mental-health, substance-use and other concurrent health challenges. People living in this home will receive comprehensive, person-centred care that meets their specific needs, such as access to primary care, mental-health and substance-use services, counselling, cultural supports and daily living resources.

“Complex-care housing has helped me tremendously,” said Kaitlynn, who has lived experience. “Not only was I able to get the right care to fit my needs, but it also allowed me and my daughter to be healthy, housed and together on my pathway to healing.”

In partnership with the Province, this new initiative is led by the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) and the Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association (FRAFCA). AHMA and FRAFCA will support the women accessing these specialized housing services to maintain a connection or reconnect to their culture.

“There’s a critical need to provide more supportive housing and complex care for people experiencing homelessness in Surrey,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “We are working with Indigenous organizations and health-care partners to ensure that culturally safe, wraparound care is available for Indigenous women so they can live full, healthy lives.”

As of March 1, 2025, the Province has expanded complex-care housing services to more than 500 people through 27 complex-care housing projects throughout B.C. Budget 2022 and Budget 2023 invested a total of $430 million to create and expand the complex-care housing program.

Complex-care housing is a key action in Belonging in BC, the Province’s homelessness action plan. It is also a part of the Province’s Safer Communities Action Plan, which is taking action to address the biggest challenges to keep people safe and communities strong. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including approximately 2,050 homes in Surrey.

Quotes:

Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for mental health and addictions —

“Indigenous women in our community face unique challenges and these new housing units will provide the safe, supportive environment they need to thrive. By offering culturally appropriate care, we’re helping to create a foundation for healing and long-term well-being.”

Margaret Pfoh, chief executive officer, Aboriginal Housing Management Association —

“Complex-care housing is a direct response to the long-standing call for adequate, integrated health services in housing for Indigenous Peoples. Our approach is trauma-informed, culturally safe and proven to change lives. We know that it is crucial to respect people’s agency, dignity and choice when it comes to housing and services. People are living in encampments across B.C. for many reasons, and often it’s because of systemic racism and inter-generational poverty and trauma.”

Kyla Painter, executive director, Fraser Region Aboriginal Friendship Centre Association (FRAFCA) —

“Safe, stable housing that is rooted in culture and community is the foundation for healing. At FRAFCA, we see first-hand the barriers Indigenous women face in accessing the care and housing they need to rebuild their lives. This new complex-care housing project is a significant step forward in providing a supportive, culturally safe space where women can heal and thrive. We are proud to partner with AHMA and the Province to bring this critical service to Surrey.”

Quick Facts:

• In B.C., First Nations people are almost six times more likely to die from toxic-drug poisonings.
• In 2023, 1,060 people experienced homelessness in Surrey, an increase of 65% from 2020.
• In Metro Vancouver, approximately 33% of people experiencing homelessness identified as Indigenous.
• A 2020 Point-in-Time Homelessness Count found Indigenous people experiencing homelessness in Surrey were more likely to be living with addiction, acquired brain injury, have a learning disability or cognitive impairment than non-Indigenous people experiencing homelessness.
• Launched in 2022, complex-care housing is designed for those whose mental-health or substance-use challenges overlap with other serious health conditions, such as brain injuries or mobility impairments.

People living in Greater Victoria now have more affordable housing options with 530 new rental homes open or opening soon in the community.

“Having access to secure, affordable housing makes a difference in people’s lives,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “Over 3,500 affordable homes have been opened in Greater Victoria to provide people with a safe foundation to navigate the challenges of everyday life. These newest 530 homes offer greater stability and opportunity for people, including those experiencing homelessness, and will help more families find homes in the community they love.”

The Province, through BC Housing, provided approximately $62 million in grant funding to help deliver 530 homes across five projects intended for people with low to moderate incomes, including Indigenous people, seniors, people with disabilities and people experiencing homelessness.

The five new housing projects that have opened or are opening soon are as follows:

• Camas House: 66 on-reserve homes at 1504A Admirals Rd. in Victoria for members of the Songhees Nation, operated by M’akola Housing Society.
• Crosstown: 154 homes (100 affordable and 54 supportive homes) at 584 Burnside Rd. E. in Victoria, operated by Victoria Cool Aid Society.
• The Ferns: Located at 496/498 Cecilia Rd. in Victoria, 88 homes will be operated by Pacifica Housing and 59 child care spaces will be managed by Burnside Gorge Community Association.
• The Lions: 137 homes at 874 Fleming St. in Esquimalt, operated by Greater Victoria Housing Society.
• The Woodlands: 85 homes at 3700 Cedar Hill Rd. in Saanich, operated by Dawson Heights Housing Society.

The affordable homes at Crosstown, The Lions and The Ferns are open, and people have started moving into their new homes. Camas House, The Woodlands and the 54 supportive homes at Crosstown are expected to open shortly.

“I am a single mother of a teenager with disability, and I was looking for a new place that is not too far from Esquimalt High School where my child attends,” said T.B., a resident of The Lions at Fleming. “My apartment is beautiful and everything I could have asked for. I love that it is within walking distance to the high school for my child, and he does not have to rely on the bus, which has always made me a bit nervous.”

These projects are part of the $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 92,000 homes delivered or underway, including more than 7,200 homes in Greater Victoria.

Surrey, BC – Surrey Art Gallery is pleased to announce the next exhibition at their offsite UrbanScreen venue. Varvara & Mar: We are the Clouds opens on Friday, March 27. The artwork is on display every evening at Surrey Civic Plaza until May 4, 2025. Attendance is free. 

This interactive outdoor art installation returns to Surrey to invite passersby to join a community of floating, fluffy clouds. The artwork is designed to allow anyone passing through the Civic Plaza to directly participate in, and alter, its appearance.

Visitors can perform live in front of one of two onsite kiosks and have their silhouette transformed into a “cloud persona” that appears immediately on UrbanScreen, projected onto a brilliant blue sky across the side of Surrey Central Library. Capturing only the silhouette of a given participant, the technology allows all prospective cloud-makers to contribute to the formation of an ephemeral cloud community. The use of the silhouette is a reminder that everyone is welcome to participate.

Prior to the exhibition’s original opening date in 2020, Surrey locals were invited to attend production workshops with the artists, where their on-camera performances were recorded to create the initial body of imagery. Varvara & Mar, an Estonia-based artist duo, used software designed specifically for this project in conjunction with a Microsoft Kinect camera. Curated by Assistant Curator Rhys Edwards, We Are the Clouds brings audiences together within a space of playmaking and creativity.

“We Are the Clouds is a joyful celebration of the ways in which art can bring people together,” says Edwards. “Anyone, whether they’re local to Surrey or passing through, can join in with the dance in the clouds. In this work, our hope is to try to make a space where people can feel a moment of joy and tranquility amidst the stress of day to day life.”

A short essay about We Are the Clouds titled “Soft, fluffy power,” by curator Stacey Koosel, is also available in the Surrey Art Gallery Presents publication series on the Gallery website.

We Are the Clouds is the second exhibition to open at Surrey UrbanScreen after the site reopened in December 2024. The exhibition joins Surrey Art Gallery’s Spring 2025 exhibition series, coinciding with the Gallery’s 50th anniversary, which also includes A Tangled Thicket, a group show featuring the South Surrey-based Z·inc Artist Collective. Both exhibitions will be celebrated at the ‘Enter the Connectome’ art party on Saturday, April 26, at Surrey Art Gallery. This event takes place from 6 to 9pm, and attendance is free.

About the artists

Varvara & Mar is an artist duo established in 2009 by Dr. Varvara Guljajeva and Mar Canet Sola. Their collaborative practice delves into the intersections of art, technology, and society, crafting artworks that probe the profound transformations of the information age. Embracing themes such as artificial intelligence, robotics, interactivity, and public engagement, their work explores how digital advances reshape social landscapes and individual experiences.

Their innovative projects, marked by a dynamic blend of conceptual depth and technical expertise, have been showcased at prominent institutions and festivals worldwide. Their exhibitions include the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) in New York, FACT in Liverpool, the Santa Mònica Arts Center in Barcelona, and the Barbican and V&A Museum in London. They’ve also exhibited at the Onassis Cultural Centre in Athens, Ars Electronica Center in Linz, and ZKM in Karlsruhe, reflecting their widespread international acclaim.

Dr. Varvara is an Associate Professor of Kinetic Imaging at VCUarts Qatar. Mar is a PhD candidate, a research fellow at BFM Tallinn University, and a visiting researcher at the Center for Humans & Machines at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development. Together, Varvara and Mar also serve as Substitute Professors of Spaces as Processes at the Academy of Media Art Cologne.

About Surrey Art Gallery

Founded in 1975, Surrey Art Gallery presents contemporary art by local, national, and international artists, including digital and audio art. Recognized for its award-winning programs, the Gallery engages children through to adults in ongoing conversations that affect our lives and provides opportunities to interact with artists and the artistic process. The Gallery is located at 13750 88 Avenue in Surrey on the unceded territories of the Salish Peoples, including the q̓ic̓əy̓ (Katzie), q̓ʷɑ:n̓ƛ̓ən̓ (Kwantlen), and Semiahma (Semiahmoo) nations. Surrey Art Gallery gratefully acknowledges operating funding from the City of Surrey, Province of BC through BC Arts Council, Canada Council for the Arts, and the Surrey Art Gallery Association.

More people in North Okanagan will soon have better access to healthy, fresh food as funding bolsters support for critical food infrastructure.

The Land to Table Network Society received $1 million through the provincial Critical Food Infrastructure Fund (CFIF) to develop the Food Shed, a North Okanagan-based warehouse, which will support the distribution of nutritious food to those in need across multiple regions.

“We know that due to the global inflation and uncertainties, some people in B.C. and in our region are struggling to put good food on the table and to buy daily essentials like groceries; therefore, our government is continuing to take action,” said Harwinder Sandhu, parliamentary secretary for agriculture. “We are funding critical infrastructure updates that will connect community service agencies with local food suppliers, helping more people access fresh and local food to address this challenge.”

The project will involve upgrading a centrally located cold-storage warehouse in Armstrong to collect, combine, process, store, market and distribute food. The upgrades will help schools, institutions, food banks and non-profit organizations in nearby regions connect to year-round, local, affordable food.

The $14-million CFIF, announced in September 2023, will span three years and is administered by United Way British Columbia (United Way BC). It provides grants for food-infrastructure projects that increase a community’s capacity to offer nutritious and culturally appropriate food to people who need it.

“This unique, centralized distribution will increase sales opportunities for local producers, increasing employment and revenue,” said Liz Blakeway, executive director, Land to Table Network. “At the same time, it will help meet the growing demand that schools, food banks and non-profits experience for affordable food for the people they serve.”

The CFIF addresses some of the key challenges faced by communities, strengthening food security for those who need it the most.

Quotes:

Sheila Malcolmson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction –

“We all want people to have access to nutritious food, so we’re taking more action to help people withstand the impacts of the trade war and global inflation. That’s why on top of hundreds of other projects, we’ve funded new critical infrastructure that helps people access fresh food in the North Okanagan and throughout B.C.”

Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food –

“When it comes to strengthening food security and food supply for British Columbians, collaboration is key. This project brings together important community partners, non-profits and government to strengthen the local food system and help more people access affordable nutritious food.”

Alžběta Sabová, director, food security, community impact and investment, United Way BC –

“Despite its abundant farmland, the North Okanagan faces food security challenges as families struggle with access to fresh, nutritious food and farmers have a hard time reaching secure markets. Transforming a cold-storage warehouse into a food hub for storage, processing and distribution tackles these issues directly. United Way BC is proud to help strengthen the local food system through this project, an inspiring rural food-security model with lasting impact across British Columbia.”

Eric Larocque, school food co-ordinator, Rocky Mountain School District No. 6 –

“Having worked in the food-security sector for several years now, it has become apparent that there are large infrastructure and logistical challenges facing the Interior of British Columbia. A lot of rural and remote communities face issues accessing fresh and B.C.-grown foods, especially in our food banks and school food programs. It is through initiatives like this that real, positive changes can be made in food access and food security for all families in our province.”

Quick Facts:

• In 2024, the B.C. government announced that more than $7.2 million of the CFIF has been distributed to more than 100 organizations to support small and medium-sized projects that help people throughout B.C. put food on the table.
• Grants from the CFIF are helping community organizations, including Indigenous organizations and First Nations, build, buy and improve warehouse storage space and equipment, buy refrigerated vehicles to transport food, and buy equipment to preserve and process food for extended shelf life.
• By increasing the capacity for storing, transporting and redistributing food locally, the grants help increase year-round availability of nourishing and culturally appropriate foods.

The Province, with the support of the ʔaq’am First Nation and the cities of Cranbrook and Kimberley, has completed the removal and testing of urban deer to curb the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD).

The operation took place Feb. 18-28, during which time 100 deer were removed from Cranbrook and 26 from Kimberley. All deer removed in this project were tested for CWD at a Ministry of Agriculture laboratory in Abbotsford. One white-tailed adult female from Cranbrook tested positive for CWD by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. All other deer tested negative.

CWD is a fatal infection that affects species in the deer family (cervids), such as mule deer, white-tailed deer, elk, moose and caribou. The disease spreads through grooming, body fluids, and shared spaces. While highly contagious among cervids, there have been no reported cases of CWD spreading to humans or pets. It is inadvisable for people or pets to consume meat from an infected animal.

The risk of spread is higher in urban deer because of population density. Urban deer populations in Cranbrook and Kimberley are of special concern because of their proximity to five CWD cases detected in the Kootenay region in the last year.

Targeted removal was undertaken by trained professionals following strict protocols to ensure public safety and minimize stress on the animals.

Future management decisions will continue to be made in consultation with First Nations and local municipalities. An urban deer collaring program has been initiated to better understand the movement and ranges of these animals to inform risk assessment and an appropriate response. Other actions may include additional removals and testing of urban deer in Cranbrook and Kimberley.

Provincial wildlife staff thank all the volunteers and partners who assisted with this project.

New support for food and beverage manufacturers throughout the province will create jobs, strengthen local supply chains, establish new B.C.-made products and increase food security for people in British Columbia.

“We are all working together to create new opportunities for B.C.-based food manufacturers that will strengthen our province,” said Diana Gibson, B.C.’s Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “Improving food security and increasing sustainable, local food production is critical for people and families as we continue facing unjustified tariffs from our neighbour to the south.”

Through the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund (BCMJF), the Province is contributing as much as $6.6 million toward the growth of seven food manufacturing companies in communities throughout the province. These expansion projects are enabling B.C. producers to remain competitive by scaling up and adding new product lines, while creating more than 165 sustainable jobs throughout the province.

Located in Kelowna, Farming Karma Fruit Company Ltd. is a family-owned-and-operated business that manufactures value-added fruit products, such as sparkling fruit beverages, using Okanagan-grown fruit. It will receive as much as $2 million to support the purchase of advanced manufacturing equipment that will bring primary processing in house, increase production and expand its product lines. This investment will help create 32 jobs and strengthen the company’s distribution of made-in-B.C. fruit products across Canada.

“Supporting food manufacturing in B.C. strengthens the economy, creates jobs and builds a resilient food system,” said Avi Gill, CEO and co-founder, Farming Karma Fruit Company. “We’re grateful for the B.C. government’s support in expanding our manufacturing operation and the opportunities it brings. As next-generation farmers, our vision is to lead in creating value-added fruit products, support local farmers, and innovate for the future of farming.”

Operating in the Fraser Valley, One Degree Organic Foods is a family-run organic food producer, specializing in oats, granola, cereals and flours made from organic, non-GMO ingredients sourced from Canadian and international farmers. It will receive as much as $2 million to consolidate its four smaller locations into one larger, centralized facility in Mission, purchase new equipment that will double production capacity to meet growing customer demand and establish new product lines, while creating 32 jobs.

“With the support of the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, we are enhancing operational efficiency through a consolidated facility allowing us to better serve our customers,” said Greg Dengin, CFO, One Degree Organic Foods Inc. “This investment increases our capacity and accelerates One Degree Organic Foods’ ability to provide traceable organic products, while strengthening our connection to the Mission community and continuing to support job growth in British Columbia.”

BCMJF funding for food manufacturing projects builds on recent work by the Province to support B.C.’s agriculture and food sector and strengthen food security. A new Premier’s task force, led by leaders representing the food supply chain from farm to table, is looking at ways to enhance B.C.’s agricultural and food economic growth and competitiveness.

Additionally, government continues to support innovation in farming through the BC Centre for Agritech Innovation with 19 new projects, representing nearly 200 new jobs, while creating more sustainable and efficient food production.

“The food and beverage sector is a core part of B.C.’s manufacturing industry, generating over $13 billion in revenue and over 40,000 jobs,” said Lana Popham, B.C.’s Minister of Agriculture and Food. “Through smart investments of equipment, infrastructure and technology, the delicious harvest we reap each year can also be transformed into made-in-B.C. products, keeping jobs and dollars in the province. That’s smart economics, especially in the face of ongoing threats to B.C.’s well-being from the United States.”

Clean and Competitive: A Blueprint for B.C.’s Industrial Future lays out the Province’s work to drive new investment, create new jobs and seize new opportunities in growing clean-energy and sustainable industries. Supporting local manufacturing sectors helps leverage B.C.’s strengths to create good jobs and opportunities in every community and will improve the quality of life for people, while strengthening B.C.’s diverse economy.

Quick Facts:

• The BCMJF supports high-value industrial and manufacturing capital projects across all sectors that create and protect well-paying jobs.
• The BCMJF has committed $146 million toward 132 projects to date, unlocking more than $1 billion in private-sector and other public investment.
  • Every $1 million invested results in $7 million in total direct capital investments in B.C., $590,000 in tax revenue to the Province, and $5.3 million in provincial GDP during the capital construction phase.
• Funded projects will create and protect more than 4,700 jobs throughout B.C.