BY SABRINA DI GIROLAMO
Food insecurity is a major issue in several remote regions, mainly due to challenges related to the supply and transportation of healthy and fresh products. This is the case in the Basse-Côte-Nord Territory, more specifically in the municipality of Saint-Augustin. This small village, connected to the Innu community of Pakuashipi, has a population of about 425 inhabitants, all of whom depend on several factors to ensure access to fruits and vegetables. In fact, the village can only be reached from Pakuashipi by taking the Esprit de Pakuashipi, a hovercraft. The latter, itself only accessible by air or water routes, is extremely isolated. As a result, healthy products are often very expensive, in poor condition, and sometimes unavailable.
The construction of a community greenhouse therefore appears as an appealing solution, improving accessibility and food security in order to enhance the population’s health. Built on top of a hill near the arena, the project creates a genuine gathering space promoting healthy lifestyles. Visitors can purchase fruits and vegetables, take part in cooking and gardening workshops, or even practice sports such as tennis or yoga.