Written by Denise Deby.
The Ottawa International Writers Festival brings a wealth of writers and ideas every spring and fall (and sometimes in between). Often there are environmentally-themed sessions, and this spring highlights sustainable food in particular.
On Saturday, April 27, Nick Saul and Andrea Curtis will speak about innovative food centre The Stop. The Stop: How the Fight for Good Food Transformed a Community and Inspired a Movement tells the story of the Toronto food bank that transformed into a multi-faceted food centre complete with gardens, a greenhouse, educational activities, advocacy programs and more, and a focus on dignity for those seeking healthy food. Nick Saul is former executive director of The Stop and president and CEO of Community Food Centres Canada; Curtis is a writer and editor. It’s at 4 p.m., Knox Presbyterian Church, Lisgar at Elgin. Details here.
On Sunday, April 28, Sarah Elton (Locavore and Consumed) joins Lorraine Johnson (City Farmer) and Barry Estabrook (Tomatoland) for a discussion of The Future of Food for a Crowded Planet. The three writers have all looked at our food system and how people are changing the way they source, eat, prepare and share food. It’s at 6:30 p.m. at Southminster United Church, 15 Aylmer Ave. Details here.
Sarah Elton will also be appearing at a lunch on Sunday, April 28 at 11 a.m. at Table 40 at Fraser Café, 11 Springfield Rd. The event is a fundraiser for the Festival’s children’s literacy programs.
See the Festival website for ticket and other information. Bon appetit!
