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York Region Food Network funds and coordinates three Community Gardens as a way
to improve access to fresh, delicious, affordable food for people in York
Region. As a model of community cooperation, the YRFN Community Gardens continue
to be a tremendous success!
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York Region Food Network started its first
community garden project in MARKHAM in 1993. The Markham garden, currently with
90 individual plots, has continued each summer. YRFN started the NEWMARKET
Community Garden in 1994, and it currently operates with 64 plots. The AURORA
Community Garden continues to grow from its’ beginning in 1996, with 60 plots.
The "backyard gardening project" started in GEORGINA 1996 and continues to
support approximately 67 families across the region. YRFN also acts as a resource for groups
interested in starting up new community gardens in York Region. |
Newmarket Community Garden |
A traditional garden plot
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Many individuals and community organizations support Community Gardens. Land is made available free of charge by a local family (Markham), the Town
of Aurora and the Region of York (Newmarket). Each community garden site is prepared for planting by the Municipal Parks &
Recreation Departments. Municipal governments provide additional support as needed, ie. snow-fencing,
compost and water. Local high school students measure and stake the garden plots and volunteer
their time as a community service activity. Seeds, plants, tools, wheelbarrows, sheds
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and other supplies are often donated or provided at cost by local businesses or service groups. YRFN receives charitable donations for the gardens from foundations,
corporations and individuals.
There is no charge to participate. Many gardeners choose to make a donation
to YRFN to assist with operating costs. Garden participants are asked to
volunteer on at least one garden committee and to donate some of their produce
to a local food bank, agency, or family in need. All local residents with any
level of gardening experience are invited to participate; however priority and
assistance is given to residents on a low or fixed income. Social service
agencies are also invited to participate in the garden program with their
clients.
Please note a limited number of plots are available. For more information on the YRFN Community Gardens,
contact the Program Coordinator at
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