By: Jonathan Evans
On Monday, June 17th, 2024, the Winston County Self Help Cooperative proudly partnered with Midway Church to host a tomato canning workshop in Forest, Mississippi, with Ms. Rosie Harris as the instructor.
This collaboration represents a significant step towards community empowerment and sustainability through our food preservation program.
Canning tomatoes is a time-honored tradition, a practical and vital method of preserving food that transcends generations. This workshop imparted essential skills and nurtured a sense of community. As our world faces increasing food security and sustainability challenges, mastering such preservation becomes ever more crucial. By learning how to can tomatoes, participants gained valuable knowledge that will not only help reduce food waste and extend the shelf life of their harvests but also ensure access to nutritious, home-preserved foods year-round, empowering them to take control of their food security.
The hands-on workshop was a highlight, engaging participants of all ages and skill levels. There was a sense of excitement and accomplishment as each person worked through the canning process, transforming fresh, ripe, homegrown tomatoes into jars of preserved goods. This immersive experience provided more than just practical skills; it fostered a deeper connection to our food sources and an appreciation for the labor and love that goes into food preservation.
This workshop is a cornerstone of the Winston County Self Help Cooperative’s food preservation program, which aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive independently. By investing in such educational initiatives, the cooperative is sowing the seeds for a more self-sufficient and sustainable future, inspiring a community that is not just surviving, but thriving.
If you would like to check out these photos from this workshop.
