Grow Food. Get Fresh Food. Learn. Connect.
Welcome Gardens is a unique food security and food-growing program in Greater Victoria focused on elevate participants own knowledge.
We support immigrants, refugees, racialized and Indigenous people who are experiencing food insecurity.
All generations have something to contribute. Elders bring valuable knowledge, experience, seeds, recipes and cultural food traditions. Children and youth bring curiosity, new ideas and opportunities for learning.
Welcome Gardens creates a space where different generations can grow, learn and share together.
You can join us to:
You do not need gardening experience. You do not need to have your own garden.
Welcome Gardens is for people experiencing food insecurity who are:
We especially welcome people who may have more barriers to growing or accessing fresh food, including:
Food insecurity means not always having enough resources to get the fresh, healthy and culturally preferred food you need.
You do not need your own backyard or garden to participate.
If you want to grow food but don’t have a place to do it, tell us.
We can help you explore available options and find opportunities to grow food.
Welcome Gardens activities change with the seasons. Depending on availability, Program Participants can access:
Learn practical skills in a slow pressure enviroment
Depending on the season, you may have opportunities to:
Welcome Gardens is also a place to:
Program activities are free for Program Participants.
Anyone can apply for available volunteer opportunities.
You do not need to meet the Program Participant eligibility requirements to volunteer.
Volunteer positions are not available all year.
We post opportunities when we need volunteers for specific activities or seasons.
Garden volunteer work is physical, hands-on work.
Tasks may include:
*Garden volunteer positions are not for teaching English, counselling, mentoring or providing settlement services to Program Participants.
Some volunteer opportunities may support fundraising through:
All volunteers must sign a volunteer waiver.
Some positions may also require:
*If a background check is required, volunteers may need to pay the cost themselves.
