Proximité cards are back to provide access to local food!
Launched in the summer of 2025, the Proximité Card initiative continues to grow in Sutton, helping Sutton residents facing food insecurity access fresh, local produce while supporting local producers. Come to the Sutton Market on June 20 to participate in the program!
In 2025, more than 75 community members facing food insecurity received prepaid Proximité cards thanks to financial contributions from the Sutton Saturday Market, the Town of Sutton, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 158, and the generous personal donations of many individuals. In exchange for the value of their card, they were able to buy fresh, healthy food at the market from participating kiosks of local producers of vegetables, fruit, meat, eggs and honey.
This year, 103 community members will benefit from this program, and more than 10 local farmers and producers from the Sutton Market will participate. The success of this initiative relies on strong community support: nearly $5,000 was raised as solidarity funds last year, and additional funds were secured through grants obtained by the collaborative food security project coordinator, Dana Cooper. The program will run from July through the end of October 2026.
The program’s impact is reflected in participants’ comments. One participant said:
“Thank you so much for the Proximité card service. It has really helped me improve my health and quality of life.”
Call for solidarity!
When used at the market, Proximité cards help reduce stigma while raising additional funds: people who wish to support the program can purchase a Proximité solidarity card for themselves and/or make a separate donation to help fund free cards.
Starting June 20, Dana Cooper will be at the Sutton Market to collect donations and sell Proximité solidarity cards.
Please note that Proximité cards purchased this year will be valid for the 2026 market season.
Donations directly support families and individuals in the region. For example:
- A $200 donation allows one person to receive $50 a month for four months.
- A $500 donation provides a family of four with $125 per month for groceries.
New this year: Tax receipts are available for donations of $500 or more.
Donations of any amount are welcome to help strengthen food security while supporting local farmers and producers. Thank you for your generosity!
If you would like to make a donation but are unable to attend the market on June 20, please email Dana Cooper at [email protected].
Vendors and producers participating in the Proximité solidaires card program this year:
Radicelle, Les Jardins de Tessa, Josabeille, Les potages des nues mains, La Ferme Windy Rock, Fromagerie Brebis de Bromont, La petite Bergerie, La Mie bretonne, Le Rizen, Mycotrophe, and La Ferme Patch.