Learning Garden inspires homeless youth 
8/20/2009
Who knew you could grow tropical fruit in Ontario? That was just one lesson learned when the UCC Learning Garden hosted a visit from Eva’s Place, a shelter for homeless youth in Toronto.
With the intention of improving their own communal garden, the kids from Eva’s Place valued the lessons about harvesting and taking care of organic vegetables. Instructed by members of UCC’s grounds crew, they were able to study the different vegetables, herbs and flowers that grow in the garden, which gave them a few ideas for their future crops.
“I learned that we can grow watermelons in Ontario,” says Tony, one of the visitors. “I didn’t know that.” After looking at the garden, the kids collected vegetables and herbs, washed them and prepared a healthy salad for lunch. Even though some were reluctant to try the vegetables at first, they were surprised they loved the taste.
The UCC Learning Garden grows 100 per cent organic food. Its newest additions include the Pizza Garden, with eggplant, parsley, basil, and oregano, and the Asian Garden with a variety of Asian vegetables.
“It is an important opportunity for kids to eat healthy and realize that there are more options out there than burgers and fries,” says Edgar Friars, a member of UCC’s grounds crew. “If you want to grow strong and healthy, this is the food you need.”