COMMUNITY GARDENS NOURISHING CITY-WIDE CONNECTIONS KRISTA MARTENS We live in a world where there is no lack of connectivity. Phones are always in our pock ets, social media platforms at the ready. But there is an increasing worry that we lack meaningful interactions or at least we see erosions to the bonds with our families, our neighbourhoods, and to the land. Community gardens are one way to assuage those concerns. They remind
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us of our rich agricultural heritage. They teach us how to be proud stewards of the land, and help us find a more significant connection with our communities. Planting a seed in freshly tilled garden soil brings immense joy. Research suggests such hands-on contact with our natural world promotes good mental health and emotional well-being. Many gardeners
will tell you there is nothing more satisfying than growing your own food. It takes commitment, patience, and sweat equity to build a successful garden. That Sense of Community As the population of Saskatoon expands, new neighbourhoods form. As immigration increases, the need for food security gradually grows as well. Families in all communities need access
KARIN MELBERG SCHWIER to sufficient, safe and nutritious food for them to maintain an active healthy lifestyle. Sandra Schweder, Community Garden Coordinator with CHEP Good Food, is passionate about food security. CHEP is an agency that offers a variety of programs for schools, families and individuals in Saskatoon. “Part of our mandate at CHEP is around the topic of food security, but we can’t forget we also need to be culturally