Edible News + Notes: April 2, 2020

Support Local
 

This pandemic will cause many of our beloved local shops and restaurants to feel economic pressure in the days and months to come. It is more important than ever to support our local markets, restaurants, breweries, wineries, distilleries, shops, etc. Check our “Support Local” page for information on the current delivery, takeout and pickup options that Vancouver Island businesses are offering. (And, don’t forget that there are still some farmers’ markets up and running who would love to see you come by to support their grocery vendors.) This great graphic shared by Merville Organics sums it up perfectly:

And, if you are ordering a meal from a restaurant and you’re feeling like you need to accompany it with a beer, don’t worry about heading out to the liquor store: the B.C. government has said alcohol is permitted to be sold for delivery or pick-up alongside a meal purchase. 

Kudos
 

Thank you to the many Vancouver Island distilleries who have shifted production to produce hand sanitizer during this time as well. Wayward Distillery, Salt Spring Shine Craft Distillery, Stillhead Distillery, Ampersand Distilling and Victoria Distillers are all producing hand sanitizer. Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. in Victoria is not only producing hand sanitizer, but also using their 3D printer to make face shields for emergency workers. 

We are so thankful to the healthcare providers who are working so hard under these stressful situations right now. Kudos to The Village Estevan in Victoria, who is supporting those workers by starting an awesome program where you can nominate a healthcare worker to receive a box of groceries. 

Travel
 

BC Ferries has seen a significant decline in passengers as people have been socially distancing. If travel is a necessity for you at this time, make sure to pack your own lunch (or breakfast or dinner), as all food and retail services on board are closed. This includes over-the-counter service and ‘grab and go’ pre-packaged items. Vending machines are still available but will not be restocked once items are depleted.

We want to hear about other local businesses and people who are stepping up and stepping out to help their communities. Email us at editor@ediblevancouverisland.com and share a kudos, a story or a silver lining for the food and drink culture of Vancouver Island. We’re all in this together!