IthaCan, a sister site to PreparedTompkins.org, is a website where home food preservers in Tompkins County can meet online to organize food preserving events or share preserving tips and experiences. You don’t have to be an expert to get started, just have a willingness to learn and connect with like-minded people. The fun takes care of itself once you jump in and sign up.
Preserving food at home is important, because it…
• Is critical to the development of the local foodshed
• Builds community resiliency
• encourages household self-reliance
• Can contribute significantly to individual efforts to lower carbon footprints
• Is a wonderful way to network with others, to learn and share.
The goal of IthaCan is to help the Ithaca area feed itself. Our Web-based network connects food preservers throughout Tompkins County, so we can learn, teach, work together and enjoy the fruits of our home kitchens. As the gas that powers the delivery trucks grows scarcer, the price tag on food will grow. And reducing our environmental footprint is critical to the health of our planet. One way to cope with these changes in energy, economy and environment is to preserve and store food, especially food from our local harvests.
The Web can’t pickle, can, or brew, but it can link you with folks who do. As an IthaCan member, you have access to dozens of other local food preservers, local sources, and local know-how.
FAQs:
Q: How much does IthaCan cost?
A: IthaCan is free. It is a citizen’s action project run by volunteers. From time to time, we may ask for a donation to meet expenses; if you can donate-great.
Q: How does IthaCan work?
A: Members of IthaCan join discussions on one of the Forum Groups or set up food gathering Events. You can also post photos, videos and blog articles related to preserving food at home.
Q: How do I get started?
A: Begin with Signing-up. This will register you with IthaCan. One of the IthaCan admin team will be in touch with you soon after you sign up.
Q: Why do IthaCan members agree to use local foods?
A: Using local foods in our home preserves is an important link in creating a sustainable foodshed for our area. By creating a market for local farmers, we strengthen our region’s ability to feed itself. It also reduces food miles, the distance food travels (by petrol) to get from the farm to your pantry.
Q: How much fun will I have?
A: Lots. Preserving food with others is very rewarding and a terrific way to network.