Over the past decade, Fresh Roots has cultivated learning and leadership among countless children and youth to learn about land and food systems, build leadership skills, and grow confidence. We have designed and delivered  meaningful food literacy and farming experiences, youth-made meals, strengthened connections between schools and food systems, provided tens of thousands of pounds of fresh vegetables to our community, and played a central role as a community builder. As part of the Coalition for Healthy School Food, we have been leaders in advocacy efforts for the National School Food program and many local food justice initiatives. We are deeply proud of what Fresh Roots has built and the impact it has had.

Like many community-based non-profits, Fresh Roots has faced ongoing sustainability challenges that were compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic and reduced operational funding available. After careful consideration of what our resources can realistically support, the Board of Directors has made the painful decision to wind down Fresh Roots Urban Farm Society.

We know this news brings sadness and loss. We intend to wind down responsibly and with care. This includes acknowledging the grief of this moment, supporting our staff through the transition, and honouring the legacy of the organization and the community it has built.

As part of the wind-down process, we are actively exploring opportunities for some programs and assets to find new organizational homes. This includes conversations with potential partners about programs, farm sites, tools, and equipment. While outcomes are not guaranteed, we are committed to doing this work thoughtfully and transparently.

We love Fresh Roots’ programs and are deeply proud of the impact they have had. While Fresh Roots as an organization will be closing, our focus is on ensuring that the values, relationships, and approaches developed over the past decade continue to live on through the work of others, where possible.

Fresh Roots sprouted from a profound belief in the power of food to transform how young people learn and grow, and our farms and programs grew out of the collective efforts of our entire community. However you may have contributed over the years, we are immensely grateful for your shared belief in this work and your enduring support. We hope the seeds of change we have planted together will continue to nourish our community, even as they take root in new ways.

With gratitude,

The Fresh Roots Board of Directors

(Aaron, Ashiana, Christina, Lloyd, Rosalind, Selma, Suzie, and Zahra)