Spoonfull
, bringing people
together, through food.
Spoonfull is a new cooperative for queer newcomers to Canada, to collectively organize and manage their food needs.
Designed some a logo and awareness posters for the visual identity of the co-op. I also designed some mockups to depict the different iterations.
Outreach Plan
Context & Objective
Food plays a crucial role in preserving cultural identity, especially for newcomers. Access to familiar and culturally relevant foods can provide a sense of home and belonging, which is particularly important when adjusting to a new environment.
This concept addresses the unique food-related challenges that marginalized groups face, and can help newcomers to integrate socially. The project explores intersectionality in food systems, inclusive of gender, sexuality, race, and other identities.
Research
My research focused on understanding the challenges faced by queer newcomers in Vancouver, BC, while identifying opportunities to build a cooperative that addresses their food security, community, and cultural needs.
Exploring Touchpoints and User Insights
I explored ways to bring queer newcomers together by identifying how they spend their time and where they access information. Many rely on community organizations, attend queer events, or use social media and word-of-mouth networks to stay connected.
I considered organizing events like potlucks, drag brunches, and workshops, which not only encourage participation but also foster trust and shared experiences.
Food Preparation & Storage Resources
I researched cost-effective options like The Door Is Open, Downtown Eastside Neighbourhood House, and Coho Commissary for meal preparation. Vancouver Community Fridge could also be a storage solution for fresh produce and cooked meals.
Stakeholder & Partnerships
Organizations like Rainbow Refugee (a Vancouver-based organization that supports LGBTQ+ individuals fleeing persecution in their home countries) and QMUNITY (a non-profit based in Vancouver, that serves as a resource hub for queer communities), could provide direct connections to queer newcomers, while offering peer support, workshops, and safer spaces.
Design Process
Business Model Canvas
Ecosystem Mapping
User discovers the co-op through social media.
After becoming a member, the user downloads the app for task assignment and to keep in touch with other members.
Then the user would perform the assigned tasks, eg. collecting groceries from ethnic grocery stores and food banks, cooking the meals in the community kitchens.
Joins the co-op through the website application.
User signs up and attends events like potluck, drag shows, eating the prepared meals.
The landing page for the website.