The Granary partners with Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation to revitalize community garden
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” This observation was offered by American anthropologist Margaret Mead.
A compelling example of this is taking place in the heart of Carleton Place, Ontario. There, a thriving initiative known as the Carleton Place and District Youth Centre’s community garden project is sowing seeds of change, nurturing both minds and bodies.
Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation, in partnership with local health food store the Granary Bulk & Natural Foods, helped revitalize the Youth Centre’s community garden, with hopes it will become a beacon of inspiration for local youth.
Dena Comley, the owner of Granary Bulk & Natural Foods, and a current city councilor of Carleton Place, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “I was excited to work with the Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation to help bring sustainable food education and opportunities to our local youth.” With a focus on expanding the community garden, the project provides access to healthy, locally grown food options and empowers the youth with valuable kitchen and gardening skills.
Evidence of the garden’s profound impact on individual lives is provided by Sharon Ruth, executive director of Carleton Place and District Youth Centre. She shares the story of Dennis, a 12-year-old boy on the autism spectrum. Participating in the garden planting project, Dennis discovered a passion for growing cucumbers. The garden continues to offer Dennis an opportunity to stay engaged and connected to his friends. “We truly appreciate all the support from Plant a Seed Foundation,” said Sharon.
The benefits of school gardens extend well beyond individual stories. They also contribute to a healthier, more connected community. Carleton Place and District Youth Centre’s community garden has also increased access to local fruits and vegetables and improved physical activity levels among children.
The sense of pride and stewardship fostered by school gardens strengthens social interactions within families and the wider community. What children experience in their gardens they excitedly bring home to their parents and siblings. Home gardens are sprouting up in hundreds of communities, as a result. And students are excited to share the produce of their gardens with the larger community, such as food banks.
Unquestionably, school and community gardens make a difference in children’s lives. They not only feed the body, they also nourish the soul. In the garden, seeds are not merely planted in the soil, they are planted in the hearts and minds of the next generation, promising a future of growth, sustainability, and community cohesion.