Meet The Farmer: Sole Food Street Farms

Founded in 2009, Sole Food Street Farms transforms parking lots and urban land into productive agricultural landscapes. They are an internationally recognized social enterprise with the mission to empower individuals with limited resources by providing jobs, agricultural training, and inclusion in a supportive community of farmers and food lovers. They have grown to become one of North America’s largest urban farms, producing up to 30 tons of fresh food annually that is sold to the public and donated to community partners. 

SFU Dining Commons has been serving up Sole Foods produce this summer and we're excited to welcome the team to Dining Commons on Aug 9th at lunch for a pop-up. Stop by to try their excellent local produce and to meet your farmers!

Over the last 14 years, Sole Food Street Farms has trained and employed residents from Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood who are facing complex barriers to employment and stability. Individuals are given the opportunity to work with living soil, grow fresh food, develop new skills, and spend their days in an environment that supports the healing of body, mind and soul.

Sole Food Street Farms models the economic and social possibilities for urban agriculture, and demonstrates the vital connections between farming, land stewardship, and community well-being.

Sole Food Street Farms produces a wide range of mediterranean fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs using innovative techniques that enhance flavour and food quality.

Their hyper-local fresh products are available through a weekly harvest CSA box, several Vancouver farmers’ markets, and through distribution to restaurants. See their updated market schedule here.

They also donate thousands of pounds of fresh food each year to local organizations serving those in the community who are under-served.

What advice do you have for aspiring foodpreneurs? What advice do you have for SFU students who aspire to have their own business one day?

In 2009, Co-Founders Michael Ableman and Sean Dory used their respective skills in farming, food security, and social entrepreneurship, to address critical gaps in the economic and social opportunities for Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood. Their aim in establishing Sole Food was to provide meaningful and sustainable jobs, access to green space, and a thriving community of farmers and food lovers. Our advice to aspiring foodpreneurs and entrepreneurs alike is to find the need in your community, collaborate with those on the ground, and use your skills to make a positive impact. 

What’s coming up next for you?  

We are continuing our work growing artisanal fruits and vegetables for the community on a 3 acre parking lot in Olympic Village. You can support our work by donating to  our program at solefoodfarms.com/donate/ .

Stay connected with us at solefoodfarms.com or on social @SoleFoodFarms on Instagram or Facebook. We look forward to sharing in the harvest with you!