Community Gardening

Programs that provide plots of land on which groups of people living in a neighbourhood can grow fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Community gardens provide access to fresh produce and plants; may be located in parks, schools, hospital grounds or other open areas; and may be nurtured communally and the bounty shared, have individual plots for personal use, or be dedicated to "urban agriculture" where produce is grown for a market. Some have raised beds that are accessible to people with disabilities. The gardens provide an opportunity for participants to savour the freshness, flavour and wholesomeness of home-grown produce; save money on their food bills; grow traditional foods not available in the supermarket; or simply get some exercise and enjoy the benefits of being outdoors. They also support a community's food security, contribute to the preservation of open space, strengthen community bonds, provide a sense of connection to the environment and offer opportunities for community education.

 

Services

Weekly program offering volunteer gardening tasks and a free family dinner. 

An initiative to increase food security in the McQuesten area by offering educational and recreational programs to community groups and school groups, weekly summer markets, fresh produce food boxes, and volunteer opportunities.

McQuesten Urban Farm was developed as a response to food insecurity in the McQuesten neighbourhood.  Its goal is to provide residents with access to fresh food, food security, job opportunities, and skills to help promote healthy eating through local gardening and farmers markets. 

A community organic urban farm located in East Hamilton. 

Educational program available to children that are interested in learning to cook, garden, and physical activity. Once a week from May-September, children will learn and prepare healthy meals and snacks, explore physical activity and learn more about nutrition and healthy living.

Provides resources and tools to start, run, or participate in community garden development, to sustain and expand the garden community in Hamilton and support Hamiltonians to use gardens to build the community, enhance the environment, and promote wellness.

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