The Carrot Cache Grant

At the end of 2009 we received a Grant from the Carrot Cache to build a new structure around our existing Garden Shed - (See te updated version and compleasted project in 2013)

Detailed description of the project:

We are requesting a grant from the Carrot Cache Community Resource Board for a variety of initiatives. These include:

Structural and aesthetic improvements to our gardening shed. The shed is used to store gardening supplies and tools and can only accommodate 1 or two gardeners at a time. We are proposing the construction of a 3 – 4 foot wide porch with a roof that can provide shade and cover in case of rain. The porch would come equipped with ramps on either side to accommodate disability scooters. Currently, if there is a sudden rain, hiding in the shed is very unpleasant and dark.

Installation of solar panels. The portion of the park that makes up the garden has no access to the city’s power grid. Therefore, we would like to install solar panels onto the roof of the gardening shed to generate our own electricity. Along with the solar panels we would require a battery storage system for more efficient and reliable power. The generated electricity would be used for lighting both inside and outside the gardening shed.

Running water feature for our Butterfly Garden. We hope to use the electricity generated from the solar panels to power a running water pool or fountain. This will provide a water source for beneficial birds and insects. Running water, as opposed to standing water, is necessary to keep mosquitoes away as well.

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What are the expected outcomes of this investment?

• Increased usage of the park and its facilities. A walk through the gardens has become a daily routine for many in the neighbourhood.

• Providing an outlet for healthy, physical activity. One of our gardeners is using his gardening exercise as a rehabilitation exercise from a stroke.

• Providing educational opportunities for children in the neighbourhood. There are 3 schools within a 5-minute walking distance of our garden.

• Increased community awareness about nurturing a native plant garden, preserving heritage seeds and organic growing methods.

• Produce more healthy food for donation to The Stop Community Food Centre.

More varieties of birds, butterflies and other insects in the garden and park.

• Increased activity and a sense of safety in the park and garden.

• To continue being a model for other community gardens across the city. We would be pioneering the way for other community gardens to also have power on their garden area sites.

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About the Big Carrot and the Carrot Common www.carrotcommon.com

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In early 1983 nine unemployed people decided to open a natural food store. They researched locations, products and discussed philosophy. All hoped to earn a living working at the store and decided to incorporate as a workers’ co-operative. This unusual business structure ensures that worker/owners have an equal voice in decision making.