The Learning Commons at Right To Food

The Right to Food Learning Commons is central to our mission to resource and strengthen the community food sector and mobilize with our partners for progressive policy change. The Learning Commons is where we come together, virtually and in person, to exchange knowledge, build relationships, and work towards solutions to challenges in day-to-day programming, as well as transformative systemic change.

With the mounting crisis of food insecurity, frontline organizations are facing increasing demands. In these challenging times, there is nothing more powerful than connecting with leaders from across the sector who relate not only to the day-to-day challenges, but also to the shared commitment to work towards a country that delivers on the right to food for all.

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The biggest impact of the GFO program on our organization this past year has been the significant enhancement of our leadership capabilities. Through the tailored training and workshops, our team has developed critical skills in talent optimization, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

This has not only improved our internal collaboration and engagement but has also empowered us to better serve our diverse communities. The insights gained have been instrumental in driving positive change and fostering an inclusive organizational culture.

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Good Food Organization

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Strength in numbers! Many of us work in isolation with limited funding and resources. Being a GFO gives us the opportunity to network with groups across Canada, offers us learning materials and access to program funding that has been really helpful to moving the organization forward.

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West Island Assistance Fund/Fonds d'aide de l'Ouest-de-l'Île, Roxboro, QC

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The biggest impact of the GFO program on our organization this past year has been the invaluable resources and advocacy guidance that have helped us expand our reach and amplify our mission. With the support of the GFO program, we began connecting with local leaders and government representatives to advocate for our cause, which has opened new doors for collaboration opportunities.

This guidance has empowered us to take a more proactive approach to raising awareness about food security issues and has strengthened our ability to create sustainable change in the communities we serve. The GFO program has truly been instrumental in helping us grow and elevate our impact.

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Fresh Routes, Calgary, AB

Get involved

It will take a groundswell of engagement at all levels to achieve the change we need to realize the right to food for all, where every community has a place for food that nurtures health and well-being, belonging, and social justice.

The Right To Food Learning Commons has resources for community food organizations and individuals.

For community food organizations, the Learning Commons includes a range of offerings through our Good Food Organization program. These offerings span online knowledge swaps, one-to-one coaching, courses and training intensives, in-person gatherings, online communities of practice, resources, research briefs, campaign materials, and funding opportunities.

For individuals interested in getting involved, you can engage with the Learning Commons in different ways:

Sign up to receive updates on our latest publications, webinars, and learning series;
Follow us on social media to see partner stories and advocacy activities;
Visit our resource library to access manuals, tipsheets, workbooks, and other tools;
Engage with our campaign materials and policy positions;
Learn more about our courses;
Explore our partner map to discover more about the Community Food Centres and Good Food Organizations that make up our network.

Learning in person

Our national office, located at 340 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, hosts our Learning Commons for select in-person demonstrations and training. It brings together partners in our teaching kitchen and workshop spaces, and showcases Sumac Community Food Centre’s welcoming programming spaces in their dining room, kitchen, and gardens.

National programs

Across the country, our national programs focus on health promotion, are community-centred, and utilize food as a tool for connection and engagement. Grounded in dignity and inclusion, these programs are delivered by trained facilitators in partnership with local organizations, ensuring they reflect the needs and strengths of each community.

Right To Food provides funds, ongoing support, training, and peer-to-peer facilitation. These programs are offered to partners through the Good Food Organization program.

A person selects produce at a market stall displaying fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, lettuce, green onions, tomatillos, and leafy greens in baskets and boxes.

Mind Your Food

Mind Your Food promotes positive mental health in young people through hands-on, food-based activities.

Learn more +

FoodFit

FoodFit supports people to make lasting changes to their health—wherever they’re at. Our research-informed approach reduces barriers to healthy eating, physical activity, and social connection.

Learn more +

Courses

Explore our online and in-person courses designed to help community food leaders grow their skills in program design, facilitation, evaluation, and advocacy.

To learn more about upcoming programs and training at The Learning Commons, please see courses and contact [email protected].

Resource library

Whether you’re starting a brand new program, evaluating an existing one, or want to take your efforts to the next level, we have resources to help you.

News and resources

Search our network across Canada

Our Indigenous Network