SMITHVILLE GARDEN CONTINUES TO EXPAND

pects of having one. The township provided the space at Hank MacDonald Park and the Employment Help Centre partnered to provide additional support.

Since that time, the garden has continued to grow and expand.

Last year, the Knights of Columbus took over management. They added 15 additional plots, giving them more than 30 total.

"Those were immediately spoken for, too," said garden co-ordinator Vern Dell.

Other additions included a greenhouse, and four fruit trees and a plot dedicated to supporting West Lincoln Community Care.

Many of the plot owners would otherwise not be able to grow their own fruits and vegetables, whether it's a lack of resources or simply a lack of space. Given rising food costs, buying them at the grocery store can also be a challenge.

"They not only provide really important food access to people during difficult times, but they also bring the community together," said Erin Riseing, program co-ordinator for the Niagara Community Garden Network, which operates under the United Way.

Dell agrees.

"There's nothing better than a community garden to build community," he said.

Vanessa Hoffman, supervisor of parks and recreation for the township, said the benefits don't just stop there either.

"Families and individuals are able to grow fresh, healthy produce for very

little money, green previously unused space, increase local food security and get to know and interact with their neighbours and work together to enhance

the community in which they live," she said.

Muchuba mentioned that sense of community and how the gardeners come together. And they

utilize every bit of the garden they can. For instance, she'll take the leaves from bean and squash plants and simmer them in water to make a stock of sorts. It can make a great addition to many dishes, she said, and costs little more than your time and effort.

The fact the 15 additional plots created were spoken for immediately is a testament to the success of community gardens and their importance, supporters said. Riseing encourages any community group that wants to start a community garden to do so. Resources and support can be found through the Niagara Community Garden Network by visiting niagaracommunitygardens.ca.

STORY BEHIND THE STORY: With food prices climbing and our sense of community rocked by the COVID-19 pandemic, community gardens provide a space to grow your own healthy food and connect with neighbours. Luke Edwards spoke with those involved with the Smithville Community Garden about the impact it has had on them and the community.