Burlington, Ont.—April 19, 2021— Media Release
From City & Regional Councillor Lisa Kearns, Ward 2

An interim urban farm agricultural use has been identified and initiated at
the North-West corner of Brant Street and Ghent Avenue with support from the Burlington based Molinaro Group.

Development intentions are signaled on this property through the ownership group and the City of Burlington’s Official Plan further identifies the accommodation of development in the Upper Brant Precinct.

COVID-19 is estimated to have dramatically increased the number of people facing acute food insecurity in 2020-2021 both locally and globally. This project is making impactful change by opening up new and innovative sources of food access that can help reduce the stressful experience of food insecurity while also mitigating the effects physical and social isolation. The unique approach of this project focuses on the collective experience towards enhancing the quality of life for local community members.

Program Overview
Burlington’s Grow for Change Urban Farm will be in operation for approximately two years across spring to late fall growing seasons. The volunteer based not-for-profit group will promote a truly multi-purpose urban farm, focused on growing food for local food security organizations, expanding community connections and promoting the many health impacts this initiative will deliver. Remote participation is encouraged through providing video and social media updates as the urban farm develops while keeping the community informed.

COVID Protocols
The health and safety of all community members is critically important. All public health protocols will be strictly adhered to and will be a mandatory requirement for all volunteers. As interest in the project increases, it is asked that unless you are a registered volunteer with this project, please refrain from entering the property.

Volunteer Opportunity
As a collaborative and engaging project local participation is encouraged. A call out for volunteers and operations sponsors is underway. Opportunities include: administration, general labour, planting and horticulture, education and general maintenance. To maintain physical distancing and an organized approach to volunteering scheduled shifts will be required, for clarity, the project is not managed as individual growing plots at this time. Interested parties are invited to contact grow4changes@gmail.com.

Quote
Vince Molinaro, President Molinaro Group
“When we were asked to be part of this initiative we said yes without even hearing all the details! The Urban Farm touched on all of our ideals and values including our love of our families, community and the environment. We all have our own gardens at home and can’t wait to share our own ideas with the group.”

Grow for Change, Volunteer Group
“We are profoundly grateful to be a part of this project where people can come together to grow food and encourage biodiversity – it is an opportunity not to be missed! We look forward to expanding community ties while working with volunteers to help provide fresh food for local food charities and urban agricultural awareness. The goal is to promote a truly multi-purpose temporary urban farm.”

Lisa Kearns, City Councillor Ward 2
“Food security is a very real issue in Ward 2 and this progressive approach will help provide nutrition to our most vulnerable. I welcome the collaboration between a private development group and a local volunteer group to strengthen the bonds of community. A truly great opportunity to get involved in a safe and purposeful way.”

Links and Resources
To follow the Grow for Change Urban Farm’s progress:
Email Grow4Changes@Gmail.com
Facebook @i.will.grow.for.change
Twitter @G4C_UrbanFarm
Instagram @Grow4ChangeBurl