Beyond Housing believes people living in affordable housing should be able to do so with a sense of dignity. This means being attentive to building housing that not only meets their financial needs but responds to their physical and mental well-being. Access to a vibrant outdoor space is integral to this.

Beyond Housing is currently completing construction of a 28-unit addition to Sprucelawn Apartments for Seniors in St. Jacobs (Woolwich Township). In addition to having the building designed with accessibility considerations for seniors with mobility issues, they have also designed an outdoor green space accessible for all tenants. This garden/sitting area will be prominently featured at the main entrance. It will feature a raised bed flower garden and some historical features of the original space such as an antique hand pump and wire fence. The sitting area will encourage conversation and community and accommodate tenants with various ranges of mobility.

As a huge supporter of the environment, nature in general, agriculture, and of course, gardening GRAS was excited to support Beyond Housing’s new project. GRAS has a mission to support innovation, education, economic growth, and community enabling agriculture and the environment to thrive. This is woven into the fabric of our philanthropic giving. In November 2023, GRAS proudly presented a cheque for $6,500 towards the new outdoor garden space.

Pictured: Isaac Scott (GRAS VP Finance), Dan Driedger (Beyond Housing), Garth Green (GRAS Board President)

Providing an outdoor space for tenants is an opportunity to encourage connection and friendship and we all understand the healing power of nature. It is calming and nurturing, a monumental need in everyone’s lives.

About Beyond Housing:

Beyond Housing creates homes for people in need of affordable housing. They develop housing that is economically and environmentally sustainable and includes supportive services.

About GRAS:

The Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS) is a not-for-profit society incorporated under the Agricultural and Horticultural Societies Act of Ontario and governed by a volunteer board of directors reporting to OMAFRA. GRAS nourishes people, animals and the planet by supporting innovation, education, economic growth, and community, enabling agriculture and the environment to thrive.

Written by: Louise Frost (Marketing Coordinator, GRAS) and Beyond Housing