The Dignity Project
We are thrilled to announce that our vision of providing our unhoused neighbours with shower and laundry facilities is about to get underway! The generosity of individuals, service organizations and corporate sponsors has made this project a reality and we are so very grateful.
Thank you for helping us to help our neighbours!
Community Garden
On August 20th, at 11:30, we’re celebrating the opening of our community garden. This project wouldn't have been possible without the extraordinary help from our community.
A member from our community was sadly lost last year. Ian Marsh was actively involved with the Cowichan Neighbourhood House Association during his youth and beyond, volunteering or spending time there when it was located at the old fire hall.
While still in high school he was involved in the creation of the garden at the school, which is still there. An avid skate boarder who helped advocate for the skate park, post high school he created a ‘gorella garden’ beside the skate park.
Although his efforts were well-intentioned, the garden was removed as it was not sanctioned by the municipaltiy. Ian's story and early efforts to create a community garden was part of the inspiration for the community garden project - which was hoped to be adjacent to the skate park. That site will be decided on this fall by council– in the meantime, they approved the present site.
This project was made possible through generous support of Harvest House, Chemainus Library, Food First Chemainus and dedicated community members, including our donors. What makes this project truly amazing is everyone came together and the collective effort they all put into this project so quickly. Everyone involved contributed their time, energy, and resources to bring this vision to life and it has engendered a feeling of pride and community amongst participants and the greater community, many of whom report enjoying walking by and noting the progress all the while utilizing space to increase food security.
This project highlights the power of a shared vision and what a collective effort can produce. Ian’s story served as a part of the inspiration for this project. Through the dedication of many individuals, donors, and organizations working together we have created a space for growth and connection in the ways that nourish a community, by healthy food and healthy relationships. May this spirit - and community gardens - continue to spread and grow.