Councillor Crockett Selected as a 2025 Food System Champion

Ward 3 Councillor Chantel Crockett Honoured for Supporting Local Food Producers

THAMES CENTRE – Thames Centre Councillor Chantel Crockett has been named a 2025 Food System Champion by the Middlesex London Food Policy Council (MLFPC), recognizing her for her outstanding leadership in connecting agriculture, community, and local food systems.

With more than a decade of experience in the agri-food sector and a deep commitment to rural advocacy, Councillor Crockett has been selected as a Food System Champion for her hands-on efforts to strengthen community ties through food and farming.

“We are thrilled to recognize Chantel Crockett as a Food System Champion,” said Kathy McKay of the MLFPC. “I had the chance to meet with Chantel a few times this year, and it was clear she has a deep commitment to both agriculture and community. She was kind, supportive, and brought such spirit and energy to her work. Her dedication across so many areas of the food system, including serving on Council, promoting local producers, and supporting food initiatives, is truly inspiring.”

Councillor Crockett is a long-time advocate for Ontario agriculture, and has worked in roles for groups like the Agriculture Adaption Council and the Dairy Farmers of Ontario.

Since being elected to Thames Centre Council in 2022, she has represented the predominantly rural Ward 3, and has used her platform to amplify the voices of farmers and producers, while promoting food literacy and sustainable food practices.

In her time on Council, Councillor Crockett has advocated for supporting local businesses and raising awareness of issues affecting farmers. She also was an advocate for the creation of the Dorchester Community Garden, a volunteer-run garden which provides vegetables to the local food bank.

Looking ahead, Councillor Crockett envisions a regional food system rooted in education, local investment, and accessibility. “We need to support producers in bringing their goods to market, create more opportunities for families to learn about food, and build platforms that empower entrepreneurs, chefs, and artisans,” she said. “When we do that, we strengthen not just the food system, but the entire community.”

Food System Champions are recognized by the MLFPC for helping to build a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable food system in our region. For more information, visit https://mlfpc.ca/foodchampions.

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Contact:
Michael Ramnanan
Communications Manager
mramnanan@thamescentre.on.ca
519.268-7334 ext. 258