Fresh fruits and veggies key to reducing long-term health problems

Dear Toula

I really appreciated your article: “Urban farming: an idea whose time has come” (Nov. 23, 2011).

It’s time to think of the future of our health in a healthy city, and having access to fresh fruits and vegetables is the key way to avoid health problems, which will reduce medical expenses in the long run.

There’s a good example I have had seen in England called « New Towns in England » that may help for understanding such an important project.

One of the new towns I visited had, at the edge of the neighbourhood, an area for a small farm where children and adults could see cows, chickens, fresh vegetables, etc.  It was an amazing idea to have a village in a town.

Another similar project was established in Guelph, Ont. five years ago by my son,  a chef who decided to have a restaurant for organic and fresh food. It’s a very successful project in the middle of the best agricultural region. You can visit his website:  www.artisanale.ca 

Subhi Qahawish

Architect and planner

Nuns’ Island