May 2026 Board of Health Meeting - RE: Dissolution of the Windsor Essex Food Policy Council Information Report

Meeting Document Type
Information Report
RE: Dissolution of the Windsor Essex Food Policy Council

Dear Food Policy Council Member,

This letter serves as formal notice of the dissolution of the Windsor‑Essex Food Policy Council (WEFPC), effective March 5, 2026.

Windsor and Essex County is facing an unprecedented level of food insecurity, with many individuals and families struggling to meet their most basic nutritional needs. The urgency of this situation requires a shift toward more direct, coordinated, and community‑driven action focused on getting food into the hands and bellies of our most vulnerable residents.

After organizational reflection, it has become clear that the structure and mandate of the current Windsor‑Essex Food Policy Council (WEFPC), is no longer the most effective mechanism to address the immediate and growing challenges facing our community. Moving forward, we will refocus our energy on strengthening food security initiatives that directly support those experiencing the highest levels of need. This direction will enable deeper collaboration with community partners, better alignment with local realities, and increased capacity to mobilize practical, on‑the‑ground solutions.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all past and present members of the Windsor Essex Food Policy Council for their commitment, leadership, and contributions. The foundation built by the Council will continue to guide and inform food security efforts in the region. To ensure that this work remains accessible, key documents will be moved from wefpc.ca to wechu.org/nutrition, under the Food Systems tab.

As we transition into this new phase of action, we welcome any questions, concerns, or reflections. We also invite partners to join us in refocusing and streamlining our collective efforts. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will provide updates over the coming weeks about new strategies and opportunities for collective community action on food access.