This year's team has been working hard for a month now maintaining the gardens and developing exciting special projects!
Meet some of the faces you might see taking care of the pods, on our social media posts and upcoming events:
Asna – Project Coordinator
"I love gardening because it's exciting to watch a plant grow. I feel a sense of pride seeing the literal fruits of my labour. Moreover, caring for and tending to the garden gives me a reason to step outside and relieve stress after a long day of classes."
Maggie – Project Coordinator
"Gardening has given me the opportunity to relax and ground myself over quarantine. It has taught me to be patient and compassionate while providing valuable skills that can be translated into many areas of my life. I'm very excited to be a part of a team that is dedicated to urban gardening right here in Toronto!"
Steph – Operation Site Coordinator
"Growing up, gardening was a time that brought my family together with the community around us. Fast forward to now, as a student studying International Development, the community Gardens Pod Project, which promotes food security and sustainability in Toronto, is something I am glad to be a part of. I'm excited to learn and grow this summer with the project."
Gabi – Operation Site Coordinator
"Gardening teaches me invaluable lessons on patience, letting go of control and ceasing to seek perfection. When I garden, I show my deep respect and appreciation for the land, and later share the harvest with my community. I believe gardening is a key model for a more just and sustainable future."
Cydney – Content/Media Creator – Virtual Learning Library
"Gardening re-connects me with the labour of producing food, respect for those who produce it, and the importance of maintaining a healthy food system. My home garden has been a sense of pride, connection, and calm over this last year and has helped me re-focus and relax in moments of stress. Sharing and enjoying food I've helped grow has been a key source of community for me during a time when physical connection wasn't always possible."
Jesna – Education Coordinator
"Growing up, my family has always loved gardening and growing fresh vegetables and herbs in our backyard. I love the process of planting nutritious food, harvesting it, and being able to consume the food that you have grown. I am excited to be a part of this excellent initiative this year that supports its community and continues to give back."
We are super excited for this growing season and connecting with you!