TORONTO, November 24, 2010 – York students are bringing a farmers’ market to campus today, an idea sparked by a class project, which they hope will become a regular event.

Harvest Fest, taking place from 1-5pm in the Bear Pit, will offer local produce, baked goods, skincare and crafts.

“We think it’s really important to supply the York community with local and healthy food options that are easily accessible, as well as educate people about the importance of buying local,” says organizer Jesse Shiff, a York student. Shiff hopes to operate the market one to three times a month.

Harvest Fest had its genesis in a project for Shiff’s psychology of creativity class. Professor Igor Kuzusyn asked students to come up with innovative ideas that would benefit society.

“Through pondering ideas about helping charities like Second Harvest gain donations and possible innovations to benefit food banks, we realized that our passion was food,” Shiff says. Shiff’s classmate Masha Koroleva came up with the idea of hosting a farmer’s market; they decided to partner with Regenesis, an on-campus sustainability group, and began sourcing vendors.

The market will feature more than 22 types of vegetables, along with baked goods, honey, nuts, vegan desserts, prepared meals, handmade skincare, and wood crafts.

“When you see the amount of heart and effort that these farmers and small business owners put into their work, you’ll feel glad you’re buying local,” says Shiff. “We’re really hoping this will catch on with the York community.”

Other organizers of Harvest Fest are Liyah Shalmiev and Cathy Sliwka.

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Media Contact:

Melissa Hughes, Media Relations, York University, 416 736 2100 x22097, mehughes@yorku.ca