Construction of a new community garden, located at Powell River General Hospital (PRGH), is underway and is expected to open in spring 2020.
The garden is intended to be a relaxing and regenerative space for patients, staff, visitors, families and the community. Beds of varying heights will be accessible to all abilities and centrally located on the hospital grounds.
“I am honoured to have a role in this project and excited to create a place of beauty and vibrancy on the hospital grounds,” said hospital garden coordinator Emily Jenkins. “A combination of food-producing plants, shrubs and trees as well as native plantings and flowers will offer seasonal colour and interest. A covered pavilion within the garden will incorporate seating for year-round use.”
Physician lead Dr. Chris Morwood said local physicians, hospital staff and community members began discussions a few years ago about how to improve health, encourage healthy eating and raise awareness about food security, which inspired the creation of a community garden on the hospital grounds for all to use.
“We would like to thank our funding partners for making this new and exciting addition to the Powell River General Hospital possible,” said Morwood. These partners include: Vancouver Coastal Health, Powell River Community Forest, Sodexo, First Credit Union, Powell River Regional Hospital District and PRGH’s facility engagement initiative.
For more information and to learn how to get involved, contact Jenkins at [email protected].
