Elgin's Local Food Program Receives Federal Funding

For Immediate Release
April 11, 2023

Central Elgin, ON – With the importance of local food on the rise, Elgin County Tourism is thrilled to announce that its Savour Elgin Culinary program has been revamped. In late January, Elgin County Tourism received $35,000 from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) to update its Savour Elgin program. This update includes a new modern logo and a refreshed magazine-style booklet that focuses on culinary tourism and agritourism experiences throughout Elgin County and St. Thomas.

“Our government’s investment in Elgin County Tourism will promote the fantastic restaurants, farmer’s markets, wineries and more across the region,” said the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “The tourism industry is vitally important to the vibrancy and economic health of communities across southern Ontario.”

Elgin’s award-winning Savour Elgin program was initially launched in 2010 to promote Elgin County’s restaurants, agri-tourism operations, farmers’ markets, wineries, and breweries through a membership-based approach. The program’s main goal was to strengthen the local food supply chain while building awareness of culinary tourism in Elgin County.

Drawing upon the program’s original intent, this new Guide focuses on the experiences that make Elgin and St. Thomas’ culinary attractions unique, at no cost to those featured. Experiences include Sweet Maple Syrup Stops, Reel-y Good Fish & Chips, Love Our Local Markets, Raise a Glass or Two, Pick Your Own Passions, and Far & Away Flavours.

“Tourism and agri-tourism are significant to Elgin’s economy. Unfortunately, this sector was severely impacted by the pandemic,” said Warden Ed Ketchabaw. “We are seeing numerous small- and medium-sized farms turn to agri-tourism to add value to their operations in order to remain economically viable now and well into the future. The funding received from the Federal Government will be instrumental in marketing these locally renowned businesses to the broader region, thus helping to re-build an important piece of our local economy.”

In addition to a print guide, which will be distributed at local events and tourism kiosks, a digital version has also been developed with interactive links, videos, and share functions. Readers will become inspired to explore a new side of Elgin County, one where local produce takes centre stage.

“This Guide will allow readers to learn about the entire food chain, all while connecting residents and visitors alike with locally produced food,” said Carolyn Krahn, Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives. “Elgin County is home to a diverse range of produce and world-class cuisine, and now is the time to share these delectable experiences.”

Taste, Experience the Flavours of Elgin & St. Thomas is now available for the public to savour the flavours of Elgin County. Follow Elgin County Economic Development & Tourism on Facebook (@elgincounty) to get access to your digital copy, or visit www.elgintourist.com for more information.

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For additional information, please contact:

Warden Ed Ketchabaw
warden@elgin.ca
519-619-8432

Carolyn Krahn
Manager of Economic Development, Tourism & Strategic Initiatives
ckrahn@elgin.ca

Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary, Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
edward.hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca