Watch how we grow!

 

The history of the chirs rooftop garden - by tricia d.

The CHIRS Rooftop Garden (RTG) began in 2019 as a visionary project aimed at transforming unused rooftop space into a vibrant therapeutic greenspace for clients and staff. The initiative was originally led by Emily from the Finch Residence and Judy Moir, who successfully applied for a Trillium grant to support the project. Judy Moir and Danny Caplan then worked collaboratively to source the architect and contractors needed to build the rooftop garden infrastructure and bring the vision to life.

        

What began as a beautification project quickly evolved into a meaningful therapeutic and community-building program. Staff were invited to contribute ideas for the garden’s decorative style and functionality, which eventually led to the creation of the RTG Crew, a dedicated group of staff and clients who shared a passion for gardening and wellness. The original crew included Judy, Rachelle, Emily, Denise, Alex (ADS student), and me the program coordinator. Together, we developed the foundation of the rooftop garden program, creating plans for staff involvement, client engagement, fundraising initiatives, and identifying individuals with gardening expertise. Audrey, the team’s farm expert, and Denise, co-facilitated planting and harvesting activities, while Rachelle supported fundraising efforts and helped connect the harvest directly to meals enjoyed by clients and staff. 

Over time, the rooftop garden continued to evolve and improve. Through hands-on learning and teamwork, the group expanded their gardening knowledge and adapted to the challenges of weather, sunlight, wind, and seasonal changes. Infrastructure enhancements such as automatic sprinklers, a covered workspace, and a gazebo seating area helped create a more accessible and welcoming environment. As the garden flourished, so did the harvest. Fresh produce from the rooftop garden was incorporated into cooking groups and meal programs, supporting a true farm-to-table experience. Clients and staff enjoyed homemade salads, soups, stews, chutneys, and baked goods created using ingredients grown on-site. Annual fundraising initiatives organized by Rachelle also contributed to sustaining the program year after year.

The CHIRS Rooftop Garden has become much more than a gardening space; it is now a valued therapeutic environment that promotes wellness, connection, and recovery. Greenspaces have been shown to support mental health, reduce stress, improve mood, and provide calming sensory experiences. For clients living with acquired brain injuries, mood disorders, and behavioural challenges, the garden offers opportunities for meaningful activity, routine, social engagement, skill development, and a sense of accomplishment through nurturing and harvesting plants. Gardening activities can enhance cognitive functioning, increase physical activity, and foster emotional regulation and mindfulness.

The farm-to-table component further strengthens these benefits by encouraging healthy eating habits, nutrition education, and community participation. Clients experience the satisfaction of seeing the direct results of their labour transformed into meals shared with others. The rooftop garden also benefits staff by providing a peaceful outdoor space to recharge, enjoy sunlight and fresh air, and connect informally with colleagues and clients. Today, the RTG stands as a unique and special enhancement to the CHIRS building, a space rooted in collaboration, creativity, wellness, and community.