Ontario Partnering with 4-H to Promote Agri-food Education

WOODSTOCK – The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing $1.4 million and working with 4-H Ontario to develop educational content and first-hand learning experiences to inspire the next generation to explore exciting careers in the agri-food sector.

Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), 4-H Ontario will receive $700,000 per year for the next two years to support the growth of the province’s next generation of agri-food leaders.

4-H Ontario youth members will learn about careers in agriculture and agri-food businesses and develop the necessary skills training that build Ontario communities. 4-H Ontario provides enhanced opportunities for youth aged 6-21 to reach their full potential through community-based clubs. It is an organization of leaders building leaders through unique and relevant programs to enable 4-H members and leaders to learn, grow, experience and travel. Developing leadership skills and learning about agriculture and food form the foundation of the 4-H program.

“4-H is a big part of our Canadian history, with deep roots in agriculture stretching back over a century,” said the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “The Ontario 4-H Council is a leader of today and tomorrow in its passion for sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.”

“This important program is an investment in Ontario’s local food security,” said the Honourable Ernie Hardeman, provincial Minister of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs. “4-H Ontario provides critical youth development to thousands of young people across the province and is one of the ways we can ensure the sustainability of our agri-food sector. With the motto, ‘Learn to Do by Doing,’ there are few educational opportunities that have the long-lasting influence on youth that 4-H does.”

“4-H Ontario is exceptionally proud of our continued relationship with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs,” said Cheryl Sullivan, President of 4-H Ontario. “The generous funding means that we can ensure the next generation of youth in Ontario have access to programs, training and opportunities that promote excellence and leadership in agriculture and far beyond.”

For more than 100 years, 4-H Ontario has provided youth with lifelong leadership skills and hands-on learning on topics such as technology and science, livestock and agriculture knowledge, financial management, food preparation, nutrition, and career development.