Introduction
This page is an event summary of our 'Let's Talk Food! Food Security Forum' on May 26th, showing highlights from the evening.
View information and the resources that have been developed following the event
Let's Talk Food! Food Security Forum - May 26, 2026
On May 26, 2026, the PCN Steering Committees in collaboration with the Vancouver Division hosted the Let's Talk Food! Food Security Forum.
The event brought together Vancouver PCN providers, community partners, and speakers to strengthen awareness of food insecurity and improve provider confidence in supporting patients.
The evening included a lived/living experience perspective from Dawn Royle; a clinical perspective from Alena Spears, Clinical Dietitian at Hope to Health Clinic; and a food insecurity and resources overview from Ian Marcuse, Coordinator at the Vancouver Food Justice Coalition and Vancouver Neighbourhood Food Networks.
Speakers discussed the current food security situation in Vancouver, how food insecurity can appear in clinical settings, practical ways to speak with patients respectfully, and local resources that can support patients and families.
Dr. Lloyd Purdy, Vancouver Physician and Steering Committee Member:
"It's good to know what resources are out there and how to connect with organizations that make this work in their life. Coming to an in-person event like this gives us a chance to hear lived experience and connect directly with community organizations. Then, when I am with a patient and trying to recommend a particular avenue of support, having a more personal connection with those resources helps me speak with much more confidence. It also helps me transfer that confidence to the people I am trying to encourage.”
Colleen Riley, PCN 3 Registered Nurse:
“I think food security is a bigger problem than we are probably aware of, and it likely affects far more people in our practices than we know. Primarily, this event helps start the conversation about how we can include discussions around food security in our routine conversations with patients. It also helps us develop resources that we can use in particular situations.”
Key Messages from the evening included:
- Food insecurity is increasing in Vancouver, and been increasing since 2019
- Providers can support their patients by:
- Connecting patients to Ministry-funded supports such as the Diet Allowance, Short-Term Nutrition Supplement, Monthly Nutrition Supplement, and Food Crisis Grants.
- Engaging in respectful, non-stigmatizing conversations
- Offer realistic dietary advice based on available cooking facilities and skills
- Review medications to ensure they suit the patient's living situation and are cost-effective.
Food Security Community Partners in Attendance
Extended Information
Speakers: Dawn Royle, Alena Spears, Ian Marcuse
