Fresh Roots Food Forest & Garden Program

The Fresh Roots Food Forest and Gardens is a welcoming green space in the heart of Owen Sound where people can slow down, connect with nature, and spend time together. Rooted in community and care, the gardens are designed to support mental well being, encourage healing, and create a sense of belonging for everyone who visits.

Since opening in 2018, Fresh Roots has grown into much more than a garden. It is a place to walk, learn, plant, reflect, and simply enjoy being outside. Whether you are tending a garden bed, joining a workshop, walking the labyrinth, or attending a community event, Fresh Roots is a space for connection and restoration.

Mental Health, Healing, and Nature

Spending time in green spaces has been shown to support mental health by reducing stress, improving mood, and creating opportunities for reflection and calm. Fresh Roots was created with these benefits in mind.

The gardens include a peaceful labyrinth, designed by Thomas Dean and opened in 2019. Entered through a wooden arbor and surrounded by plants such as lavender, sage, cedar, and catmint, the labyrinth offers a quiet space for mindfulness, grounding, and gentle movement. Many visitors describe it as a place to pause, breathe, and reset.

A Space for the Whole Community

Fresh Roots Gardens is for everyone.

Community members are welcome to:

• Visit and enjoy the gardens as a place to walk, sit, and recharge
• Rent a garden box during the growing season and grow their own food
• Take part in educational workshops and learning opportunities throughout the gardening months
• Gather for community events in a beautiful outdoor setting

The gardens also support local food access by growing produce used by Fresh Roots Café and Catering, with additional produce shared with community partners offering meals in the region.

Employment and Purpose

Fresh Roots is also a social enterprise of CMHA Grey Bruce. The program provides meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with lived experience of mental health or addiction challenges. Working in the gardens offers structure, skill building, confidence, and a sense of purpose, while contributing to something that benefits the broader community.

Garden Box Rentals

During the gardening season, garden boxes are available to rent at a nominal cost and are open to all community members.

Workshops & Event Space

Educational workshops and hands on learning opportunities are offered throughout the year, focusing on gardening, food, wellness, and connection.

Fresh Roots Food Forest and Gardens is also available as an event space. The natural setting makes it an ideal location for small gatherings, workshops, and community focused events.

Getting Involved

For more information about employment, garden box rentals, workshops, or event space, please contact:
519 371 3642 ext. 1282

Location

St. George’s Park, Owen Sound

Support

Our Garden Program is one of our non-government funded programs. If you are interested in becoming one of our Garden donors, please contact our organization or fill out this form.

Managed by

We are very thankful for our sponsors and donors of our Garden Program. Special thank you to the following funders: