Gardening at the Shelter

Gardening is an activity that holds a treasure trove of benefits, offering more than just the pleasure of nurturing plants. It acts as a natural stress reliever, allowing individuals to unwind and feel a deeper connection with the natural world. The process of caring for plants, watching them grow and flourish under your care, brings a profound sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Beyond the personal joys and achievements, gardening fosters a strong sense of community and belonging, as it can be a collective endeavor that brings people together, working towards a common goal.

Understanding the multifaceted benefits of gardening, Beedie demonstrated a commendable commitment to fostering community spirit and well-being on July 24th. They generously donated not only all the necessary supplies but also the manpower required to install a series of garden boxes at our Emergency Shelter. This act of kindness and community support brought a new dimension of care and beauty to the shelter, enriching the lives of its residents.

The installation day dawned warm and bright, setting the perfect stage for the day’s activities. Volunteers arrived, brimming with enthusiasm and a willingness to contribute, their positive energy infectious. The air was filled with laughter and animated conversations as the group embarked on the project, building the garden boxes from scratch. The process was a hands-on experience for everyone involved, from constructing the boxes to filling them with soil and planting a variety of seeds and plants. The shared effort and the tangible results of their work created a lively and engaging atmosphere.

In total, four garden boxes were installed, each with a specific purpose and promise. A large box dedicated to growing vegetables and spices will support the shelter’s food program, adding fresh, home-grown ingredients to meals. Another large box is set to bloom with beautiful flowers, bringing color and life to the shelter’s surroundings. Additionally, two smaller boxes were placed near one of the entrances, their presence designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for all who enter.

These garden boxes are more than just containers for plants; they symbolize the growth of community spirit and the nurturing environment of the shelter. They serve as a reminder of the beauty of nature and the importance of caring for and supporting one another. The initiative taken by Beedie and the volunteers on that warm July morning not only beautified the shelter but also planted seeds of hope and belonging, enriching the lives of those who find refuge there.