2010 has seen the continued growth of the Community Gardens and School Learning Gardens Program, a partnership between EcoSource and MIAG, funded generously through the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Through this program we are working to connect communities in the Region of Peel with neighbourhood garden spaces, garden networks, and educational opportunities that increase access to healthy organic food in our community.

Community Gardens

The newest community garden was established in the Malton area this spring with the grand opening of
the Malton Community Garden, located in Elmcreek Park. Many community groups and neighbourhood
residents have worked together to turn this space into a welcoming place to grow food, hold workshops
and events, participate in garden art and build community.

The other gardens are growing as well; both the Hillside Park Community Garden and the Garden of the Valley Community Garden continue to be a popular place for gardeners and for community involvement. There are almost 70 plots under cultivation, providing fresh, healthy food to Mississauga residents and local food banks. Volunteers from Mississauga Master Gardeners, UPS, Credit Valley Conservation Youth Corps and the Archbishop Romero Catholic School have been very involved in creating and maintaining the gardens, as well as providing valued assistance in gardening skills and knowledge. Due to the growing demand for garden spaces, EcoSource and MIAG are currently in the site construction phase of the fourth community garden on municipal land at Parkway Green Park, serving the Central Parkway community.

Independent Gardens

Gardens Program staff are also supporting three independent groups in establishing or continuing their
community gardens this year. These groups include the Sahara Seniors Garden, the Village Keepers Child & Family Centre, and the Palgrave Environmental Committee. All three groups are enthusiastic about creating spaces for connecting community members together, growing fresh food and building networks.