November 20, 2025

Fresh Food, Fresh Start: How Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods and United Way Niagara Are Supporting Healthier Lives

basket of fresh produce

Access to fresh, healthy food should never be a luxury—but for many families, it is.

Rising grocery costs and limited transportation options mean that nutritious choices like fresh fruits and vegetables are often out of reach for those who need them most. That’s where The Market, a program led by Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods and supported by United Way Niagara, steps in to make a tangible difference. Each week, The Market provides local residents with access to fresh produce like apples, peppers, greens, and more, helping to fill the gap for individuals and families facing food insecurity. This initiative does more than feed people; it nourishes the community. “Having access to fresh fruits and vegetables each week has helped me plan meals, try new recipes, and cook more often,” shared one local participant. “It feels good to pick out what I want—just like shopping at a grocery store, something I can’t usually afford to do.” Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods Beyond reducing hunger, the impact of The Market reaches much further. Regular access to nutritious food helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases, supports healthy growth, and boosts overall well-being. By addressing the barriers of cost, availability, and transportation, this program helps residents take meaningful steps toward better health without the added financial stress. United Way Niagara’s support of Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods is part of a broader commitment to ensuring that every neighbour has access to the essentials of a good life: food, shelter, and opportunity. Together, we’re creating more equitable access to healthy food choices and helping families build stability from the ground up. Because when people are supported in meeting their basic needs, our entire community grows stronger. Learn more about the work of Strong Fort Erie Neighbourhoods at strongforterie.com

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Charitable Registration #: BN13053 2443 RR0001