Local leaders launch ‘Fort Cares’ movement to tackle food insecurity

Brent Jones
February 28, 2026 at 5:39 AM

More than 15 local organizations and municipal leaders gathered this week at the Fort Erie Public Library’s Centennial branch to begin what organizers describe as a new community-wide push to address food insecurity.

The February 25 roundtable, dubbed “Building a Nourished Community Together,” was led by Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods (SFEN) and brought together food banks, school nutrition programs, community gardens, senior care representatives, service clubs, emergency food providers and faith-based groups, according to a news release issued following the meeting.

Mayor Wayne Redekop, Councillor Joan Christensen and Regional Councillor Tom Insinna attended, along with Niagara Region representatives including Clare Cameron, Bev Bradnam and Marc Todd, the release states.

Organizers say the meeting signals a shift in strategy in recognizing food as a social determinant of health rather than simply a matter of individual choice.

“The accomplishment of gathering 16 food-focused organizations and passionate political leaders together for a community focused discussion on food security for our residents must be celebrated,” Theresa Murphy said in an email to Fort Erie Radio.

Murphy, who sits on the SFEN board, said the collaboration marks a critical step forward.

“This is another example of how collaboration for collective impact can strengthen our town,” she said. “The fact that many leaders left wanting to form an anchor committee…is a critical step.”

According to the release, participants agreed to remain engaged as an “anchor table” focused on strengthening Fort Erie’s food security strategy by addressing barriers related to access, storage and distribution of healthy food.

Organizers also pointed to local data showing that one in four people–or roughly one in eight households–in Fort Erie experience food insecurity, amounting to an estimated 8,000 residents.

“If ‘Fort Cares,’ we cannot accept this or ignore it,” the release states.

The emerging Fort Cares movement aims to move beyond short-term relief efforts toward a coordinated system designed to ensure long-term, stable access to nutritious food for residents.

Organizers say further discussions are expected as the anchor committee begins shaping the framework for what could become a formal Fort Erie Food Network.