Community gardens have been active in Edmonton all summer long.  Various schools, community groups, organizations and community leagues have been involved in getting gardens growing!  But these citizens aren’t just growing vegetables; they are building relationships with their neighbours and community members too.  One such organization, SAGE (Senior’s Association of Greater Edmonton) is working especially hard to get Senior Immigrants out into the garden and sharing their unique knowledge and experience.

Through their SPIN program SAGE has been helping Senior Immigrants find garden space throughout the city.  Many of these new Canadians have a history of gardening but now find themselves short of land, as well as social networks.  SPIN is helping to network these seniors with each other as well as with established Canadians with garden space to share.  The program facilitates creating these relationships by using the borrowed land of local residents – perhaps a back yard garden or a community garden. 

One particular success story is that of the Korean gardeners at the Millwoods-Wagner Community Garden.  They have been able to sow their plots with seeds from their home countries and enjoy familiar vegetables.  The Koreans are also having the opportunity to mingle with the other gardeners and become familiar with Canadian gardening style and vegetables. 

Currently, the SPIN project is beginning preparations for next years season and searching for new land.  They are particularly in need of land in the downtown area and anywhere along major bus or LRT routes.  If you are able to help, please contact Maureen at melhatton@mysage.ca