Brampton residents looking to give their greenthumbs a workout can get free soil and seeds through the Backyard Garden Program.
Spring may be nearly two months away, but the city has already opened registration for the 2026 edition of the community program designed to help residents grow their own fruits and vegetables while improving “well-being and contributing to the community’s fight against food insecurity,” the city says.
Now in its sixth year, the Backyard Garden Program members get five bags of soil and a gardening sampler seed pack containing three easy-to-grow seed varieties (lettuce, beans and carrots).
Participants are encouraged to donate their surplus produce to those in need, with more than 20,000 pounds of locally grown fruits and vegetables donated to local food banks and organizations since the program launched, the city says.
A recent survey found that nearly half of respondents are growing food at home as grocery costs increase nationwide.
Data from Homestars showed that while the average annual household cost of groceries (for two people) is $8,000, a makeshift walk-in greenhouse runs the average Canadian only about $600, which would drastically reduce produce costs if implemented correctly.
Those who are hungry in Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon can also find out where to go for help using the Peel Food Map. The map shows where there are breakfast programs, soup kitchens and food pantries, as well as the food banks.
All participants are required to attend one in-person workshop at the Century Gardens Recreation Centre. The workshops are scheduled for Feb. 28 and March 7 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 1 p.m to 3 p.m. An online option is available for those with accessibility needs or scheduling conflicts, the city says.
The Backyard Garden Program is open to Brampton residents, with first-time participants prioritized for registration. To sign up, visit www.Brampton.ca.
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