Kingston East Community Garden

The Kingston Community Garden Network was established by the City of Kingston in collaboration with partner groups to support the creation of new community gardens on public or private lands, and to assist with the retention of existing community gardens in the city. The current network of community gardens includes space for allotment plots (your own personal garden plot), tasting gardens, donation gardens, and training gardens. In accordance with the City’s Community Gardens Policy, public engagement is required prior to a permit being issued.

Before offering feedback, please consider reviewing the City's Community Garden Policy.

What is a community garden?

Community gardens provide a shared space for a group of residents or a community organization to grow and harvest produce, flowers or native plants. The City accepts applications for community gardens to be built on municipally-owned lands to help residents and local non-profits establish community-led garden projects in parks and greenspaces.

Community gardens create a healthier, more livable community by helping residents grow food and build relationships with neighbours. Community gardens are open to all residents and are guided by the following principles:

• Walkable – Used and enjoyed by those who live in the community.
• Inclusive – Welcoming gathering space open to everyone.
• Community-led – Designed for the community, by the community.

Project background

During the construction of the Kingston East Community Centre, City staff were approached by members of the community and local non-profits asking if land could be set aside for the development of a community garden. It was determined that the greenspace on the east side of the building would be a suitable location for a community garden.

The creation of the garden will begin in the summer with the installation of three raised beds.

The garden has been sponsored by Mike Lee Desjardins Insurance and will be named the Mike Lee Desjardins Insurance Community Garden.

Volunteers needed

Once established, the garden will be community-led! The City is looking for community members interested in overseeing the operations of the community garden.

Those interested can provide their contact information through the survey.

We want to hear from you!

You are invited to take part in the public engagement process on the development of the Mike Lee Desjardins Insurance Community Garden located at the Kingston East Community Centre. The objective of this engagement is to:

• Provide background information on the benefits of community gardens and operations.
• Let residents know how they can participate in the establishment of and become a member of the community garden.
• Recruit a volunteer garden coordinator.
• Provide residents with an opportunity to ask questions and voice their support for or concerns about the community garden.

Have your say

• Before July 7, complete a brief survey to share feedback.
• To complete the survey by phone or to request a paper copy, call 613-546-0000.