The Landrace Community Garden will expand to help bring people back to public spaces safely

From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

News release

Government of Canada fueling community revitalization and creating the conditions for local economies to thrive as they rebound from the effects of COVID-19

June 25, 2022 · Dartmouth, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Canadian cities and towns flourish when they have community public spaces to promote social interaction and physical activity, and provide access to recreational programs and facilities. These amenities are integral to the overall well-being of individuals, families and communities. Our economic recovery is closely linked to the vitality of our local communities and their shared spaces.

Today, Darren Fisher, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Seniors and Member of Parliament for Dartmouth–Cole Harbour, announced an investment of $9,827 through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) for the Landrace Community Garden Society during the community garden’s second annual garden opening party. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.

This support will help the non-profit organization add a greenhouse and gazebo to its community garden. The greenhouse will extend the growing season, helping to produce more fresh, free local produce for community members and provide additional opportunities for volunteer involvement. The gazebo will offer a shaded outdoor gathering space for people of all ages to enjoy.

The CCRF was launched in June, 2021. The Fund provides $500 million over two years to Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to invest in shared and inclusive public spaces. As public health restrictions ease, the Government of Canada remains committed to investing in shared spaces to make them safer, greener and more accessible. This in turn will stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for Canadians.

Quotes

“Strong, vibrant communities in Nova Scotia are a critical part of a robust and inclusive economic recovery. Investing in shared public spaces like the Landrace Community Garden in Dartmouth gives residents a place and a reason to come together safely.”

-       The Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA

“Growing good, healthy food in our communities helps improve food security and our quality of life. More than ever, folks value safe outdoor spaces that bring neighbours together. Our Government understands the importance of supporting great projects and spaces like the Landrace Community Garden.”

-    Darren Fisher, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Seniors and Member of Parliament for Dartmouth–Cole Harbour

Quick facts

  • The Landrace Community Garden Society was formed in 2020 to build and manage an accessible community garden in Landrace Crescent Park, helping the community get outside safely during the pandemic. 

  • The community garden is now in its second growing season. It has 13 plots that are reserved for the season by community members, one pollinator garden plot, and four community plots – all of which are wheelchair accessible – that anyone is welcome to visit, tend to, and harvest free of charge.

  • CCRF funding will support two major streams of activity:

    • adapt community spaces and assets so that they may be used safely in accordance with local public health guidelines,
    • build or improve community spaces to encourage Canadians to re-engage in, and explore their communities and regions. 

  • Eligible recipients will include not-for-profit organizations; rural, municipal or regional governments; Indigenous groups and communities; and public sector bodies that provide municipal-type infrastructure. 

  • Priority may be given to projects that encourage the participation of underrepresented groups and take into consideration the unique challenges of rural and remote communities. 

  • For more information on the application process, eligibility criteria and eligible expenses, or to apply for the CCRF, reach out to your regional development agency.

  • Canada’s regional development agencies are continuing to deliver targeted support for economic recovery in the region. Application intake is open through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency for the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, Jobs and Growth Fund, Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative and Tourism Relief Fund.

Associated links

Contacts

Marianne Blondin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Official Languages and of the
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Marianne.Blondin@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Lauren Sinclair
Communications Director
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
782-641-6365
Lauren.Sinclair@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

Johanna Gordon
Chair
Landrace Community Garden Society
902-719-4513
LandraceCommunityGarden@gmail.com

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