Brampton gardeners donate 7,000 pounds of produce to residents in need

Bramptonians grew some 7,000 lbs of produce for local charities and residents in need this year through the City’s Backyard Garden Program.

The annual Backyard Garden Program first launched in April 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, giving residents soil, seeds and growing advice to help them get gardening.

From April to October, Bramptonians grew their own backyard gardens. Some residents kept their harvest, while others donated their crops to local food banks and community organizations, including the Knights Table, Regeneration, and Heart Lake United Church’s Community Cupboard.

The eco-friendly initiative helps support food security in Brampton. City Councillor and program Chair Doug Whillans said more than 2,900 Bramptonians took part in the gardening program for its third year, and donated approximately 7,000 pounds or 3175 kilograms of food to local charities.

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Whillans said the donated produce will help make “a meaningful difference in our city.”

“We are endlessly grateful to our sponsors and to everyone who contributed to this initiative in support of food security for our residents,” Whillans said.

The City said more than 14,600 bags of soil and 5,800 packages of seeds were donated through the program this year.

The Backyard Garden Program is operated by the City’s Park Maintenance and Forestry division, and is an extension of Brampton’s Community Gardens program.