The Island School and Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) have long considered the importance of sourcing food locally. In fact, food security is one of CEI’s four thematic pillars. 

Food security can be defined as reliable access to local, nutritious, affordable food. In The Bahamas, more than 90% of food is imported—primarily from the United States—which creates an easily disrupted and expensive food supply. This also limits the amount and quality of fresh produce available. 

A new initiative to support local farms has pushed our campus even closer to achieving food security. The Local Food program looks to increase our food security by partnering with local growers to source fresh local food and decreasing our reliance on imported goods. This program also aligns with our community-centered mission by prioritizing local investment.

This initiative is being led by Tiffany Mckinney, who has worked with The Island School since 2000 and is collaborating with local farmers to expand the variety and increase the volume of fresh foods coming into our kitchen.

Just last week, we finalized our first formal agreement with a local farm: WHT Eggs.

Based in Wemyss Bight, WHT Eggs has been providing our Dining Hall with fresh eggs for several years, and we have now come to an agreement that ensures a long-term partnership with the farm. 

The Local Food program extends beyond agriculture—we are also working with local fishermen to create a responsible relationship to source fresh conch, lobster, and fish from the sea. 

We are eager to continue this work to support sustainable food systems in South Eleuthera and beyond.