With the holidays fast approaching, the Kamloops Food Policy Council is encouraging residents to “skip the stores” and shop local with its 2025 Holiday Foodie Box—an annual fundraiser that showcases regional food producers while supporting long-term food security across the Kamloops area.
The curated box, described by organizers as “BC Bites and Holiday Delights,” features 14 shelf-stable food items and handcrafted goods from 16 local small businesses and artisans. Orders must be placed in advance, with the deadline set for November 30.
“This year’s box includes a range of unique, long-lasting products, so you can purchase in November and know everything will still be perfect for December gifting,” said Naya Macaulay of The Stir, KFPC’s food business incubator program. “It saves time for shoppers, but more importantly, every purchase supports the businesses and producers that keep our local food system strong.”
A Gift That Builds Local Food Sovereignty
The KFPC, now celebrating more than 30 years as Canada’s oldest food policy council, says the Holiday Foodie Box does more than offer local shopping convenience—it strengthens the region’s ability to withstand disruptions in global food supply chains.
“Most of our food is imported from outside the region or even the country,” Macaulay explained. “Events like COVID-19, the 2021 atmospheric rivers, or difficult wildfire seasons show how quickly supply chains can be interrupted. Supporting our local producers helps build a resilient, homegrown food system.”
Last year’s boxes raised over $7,000 for participating small businesses and more than $1,000 for The Stir. Organizers hope to surpass that total this season.
All proceeds from this year’s Holiday Foodie Box go directly to the 16 small businesses featured, as well as The Stir, which provides kitchen rentals, business mentorship, workshops, and start-up support for emerging food entrepreneurs.
What’s Inside the 2025 Holiday Foodie Box
The 2025 collection includes edible treats, artisan goods, and gift vouchers from across the region:
- Caesar Mix – Spicecraft Foods
- Tasting Voucher & Gift Card – Monte Creek Winery
- Amplified Coffee – Coffee Beans
- Lebanese Rice Kit – Pickle and Sprout
- Loose Leaf Tea – Good Little Tea Co.
- Coffee Beans – Logjam Coffee
- Candied Sockeye Salmon – Authentic Indigenous Seafood
- Apple & Pear Chips – The Stir
- Chocolates – Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
- Artisan Cards – Yvonne Reddick Art
- Preserves – Local Connect | Rad Jamz
- Beaded Bracelet – Rein Goods
- Seasoning Mix – Local Connect | Gathering Place
- Sourdough Bread Voucher – Brynn’s Bakery
Each item is shelf-stable or preserved, allowing buyers to gift the full box or break it up into stocking stuffers or client appreciation bundles.
How to Order and Pick Up Your Box
Holiday Foodie Boxes must be ordered in advance through the KFPC’s online shop. This pre-order system helps eliminate food waste and reduces financial risk for producers by allowing them to supply only what is needed.
Key dates:
- Orders Close: November 30
- Pickup Dates: December 10 or December 13 at The Stir
- Delivery Option: December 15 for home or office drop-off
Macaulay said the boxes offer a meaningful way for residents and businesses to support their neighbors: “It’s a thoughtful, local gift that shows appreciation while helping build a regenerative, sovereign, and just food system in Kamloops.”
