In a small Ontario community, seeds of hope and neighbourly support are being planted through a community garden project that’s cultivating so much more than fresh produce. Among the enthusiastic supporters of this initiative is Salus Mutual.
When the garden project began the goal was simple: to support two local food banks, the Dutton Auxiliary Welfare and the Caring Cupboard in Rodney. It has since blossomed into a wider effort to address food insecurity among seniors, those on assisted living support and low-income residents.
Those involved understand the difference the garden makes, especially in the lives of local residents. ”It’s really nice that the garden helps support tenants who need that source of food," says Brooke Small, a representative from Caledonia Gardens in Dutton. "There's always an extra box left over for everyone in the building to pull from."
The garden's impact extends beyond nutrition. It has become a hub for community engagement, bringing volunteers together to plan, plant and harvest. This social aspect is particularly valuable for seniors and others who may feel lonely or isolated.
While the exact yield hasn't been measured, the garden's success is evident in the gratitude of its beneficiaries. For many, it eases the difficult choice between paying for groceries or covering essential bills like hydro and rent.
This community-focused approach aligns with the ethos of mutual insurance companies throughout Ontario. Rooted in the principle of "neighbour helping neighbour," mutuals like Salus are committed to understanding and addressing local needs.
"The mutual way is to give back to the communities we serve. This is one of the ways in which Salus is doing exactly that." says Salus Mutual’s President and CEO Jodi Rich.
Beyond the garden project, Salus Mutual demonstrates its community commitment through safety awareness initiatives, local sponsorships and partnerships with law enforcement agencies.
As the garden continues to flourish, it shows that coming together for the greater good really does make a difference. And by supporting this initiative, Salus Mutual has the privilege to cultivate something even more valuable than fruits and vegetables: a stronger, more connected community.
