What if the solution to a stronger, healthier community could start with something as small as a seed? In Waterloo Region, Seeds of Diversity Canada is proving that growing food can also grow confidence, skills, and hope, especially for the next generation.
In recent years, food security has become a growing conversation in our communities. How can we ensure a stable, sustainable source of nourishment for our families and neighbours? One proven way is through gardening, whether in our own backyards or in shared community spaces.
Founded in 1984 as a seed-saving organization, Seeds of Diversity works to protect Canada’s seed biodiversity by cultivating vulnerable varieties and sharing them with other growers. Today, they have more than 3,000 members across the country.
“We wanted to find a way to engage youth in seed saving and gardening,” says Rayna Almas, Program Director of the Youth in Food Systems program. “The principle is that young people can—and should—spend time exploring food and sustainable practices in environments that are self-directed and meaningful. By providing food systems programming and garden infrastructure, we are empowering the next generation of agriculture and food experts.”
Research backs this up: “School gardens lead to improved academic outcomes, enhanced social development, and better mental health for students who take part,” notes Rayna.
Launched in 2017, the School Garden Network now includes 47 school food gardens across Waterloo Region. Six of these sites host the Youth Food Market program, a series of youth-led produce stalls that run each summer. These markets make fresh, locally grown produce more accessible while supporting the local food system. They also offer youth hands-on experience in gardening, leadership, and community engagement.
Gardens are planted in spring and maintained throughout the summer by program volunteers. Each week, produce is sold at three market locations, with additional offerings from local farmer partners to round out the selection. Since 2021, Youth Food Markets have sold or donated more than 2,900 pounds of produce. Anything unsold goes directly to local food banks.
Klara, a Grade 11 student at St. Mary’s High School who volunteers as a Market and Garden Leader at the Eastwood site shares, “I wanted to learn how to grow things and felt that getting involved in this program would be a great thing to do over the summer.”
Her experience reflects the heart of Seeds of Diversity’s mission - growing food, skills, and community, all at the same time. Kindred is committed to supporting initiatives that alleviate hunger in our community and is pleased to support the Youth Food Markets through the Kindred Charitable Fund.