Patients at North Island Hospital Comox Valley are enjoying fresh, locally grown produce from Comox Valley farmers thanks to a new opportunity with LUSH Valley Food Action Society.

The pilot project, which began in July, connects Island Health with small-scale farmers through LUSH Valley's aggregation and distribution services, bringing local bounty to patients.

The program currently supplies four specific crops – baby potatoes, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and blueberries – all sourced directly from Comox Valley farmers.

LUSH Valley, which stands for "Let Us Share the Harvest," purchases produce from multiple local farms and delivers it to Island Health facilities, making it easier for the health authority to work with smaller growers.

Maurita Prato, executive director of LUSH Valley Food Action Society, calls it a big win for the local food system.

"This is precedent-setting for local food procurement policy in institutions," Prato said.

For details, visit Island Health.