Eat Right, Spend Less! Good Food Club Launches U of L Location
Eat Right, Spend Less! Good Food Club Launches U of L Location

March 13, 2008

A joint effort between a community organization the Students’ Union and a group of School of Health Sciences nursing students will mean the Lethbridge Good Food Club, a not-for profit food buying club, can enhance more people’s food budgets with their value-priced selection of fresh produce.

The Students’ Union office at the University of Lethbridge is the Good Food Club’s newest drop-off and pick-up site on the west side of Lethbridge.

The location was chosen based on research conducted by School of Health Sciences nursing students. Their data pointed out the need not only for a west-side location, but also a way to ensure students and members of the community had access to the process by which they could obtain fresh produce at a reasonable price and at a convenient location.

"Our students are involved in this because as a school of nursing, we are a part of the community," said Mary Nugent, a School of Health Sciences professor and supervisor of the student group. "Innovative clinical nursing classes engage students with our local health and wellness agency partners in projects that lead, ultimately, to a healthier community for all of us."

The Good Food Club enhances people’s food budgets by sourcing locally-grown produce in season -- or negotiating with food suppliers -- to offer a selection of items for sale in various-sized boxes: $5 for a small box, $10 for a regular box, or $15 for a larger box.

The $10 box contains a supply of fresh produce enough to feed three or four people and can last up to one month. By taking advantage of specials, buying bulk and choosing locally-grown products, the Good Food Club can potentially save up to 50 per cent off the regular retail value.

Orders are placed and paid for approximately one week prior to the pick-up date.

The Community Good Food Club is open to anyone wanting a convenient and economical way of promoting healthy eating habits. Contact your local Community Good Food Club office for more information on how to join and for order and pick-up dates.

The Community Good Food Club is run by a team of dedicated community partners and volunteers. Those receiving a Good Food Box are asked to donate a minimal amount
of volunteer time to pack and distribute the Good Food Boxes and community partners help operate the program. This collaborative effort is beneficial for everyone involved.

To place an order for a Good Food Box, drop it off with payment in a secure lock box at the Students’ Union offices on the last Thursday of each month. Orders are filled and members can pick up their groceries on the 2nd Thursday of each month.

Contact the Good Food Club at (403) 327-8815 / e-mail goodfoodclub@shaw.ca for information on how to register

Background:

What are the benefits of becoming a member?

• Health – There are numerous health benefits to having fresh produce. Fresh fruit and vegetables help fulfill the balanced diet we need to remain strong and healthy.

• Convenience - Getting the time to shop for fresh produce is often a challenge. Let the Good Food Club do the shopping for you.

• Cost – Save up to 50 per cent off your produce bill. Take advantage of the cost savings that the Good Food Club can offer and ensure that you and your family have healthy food choices.

• Information – All Community Good Food Club members receive a monthly newsletter filled with community events, tips, recipes and more.


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U of L Communications and Public Relations Contact:
Bob Cooney, Communications and PR Officer (403) 382-7173

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