Berwick Parksville is thankful for a Government of Canada grant called New Horizons for Seniors Program 2024.2025.
Part of the grant is being used for a new project called Green Thumb Gardeners and it is an intergenerational project with split grades 6/7 from Errington Elementary School participating. Jeannine Krefting, Active Living Manager said, “We are thrilled to support the development of meaningful intergenerational connections between this inspiring group of students and our residents, as they collaborate on this valuable and enjoyable project.”
During the time of the project, Berwick Parksville Horticulturist Kelsey, who led the program, said “I love watching the joy and excitement of others learning what I love most, gardening; and passing it down for generations to come”. In anticipation of the students’ first visit, Kelsey and Jeannine took some residents to Seedy Saturday, where herbs, vegetable and flower seeds were picked, with knowledge and advice from Kelsey.
Three dates were set for the students to come to Berwick Parksville’s studio and work alongside residents, actually going through the growing process from start to finish.
The first visit was on February 21st, when 19 students, 2 teachers and residents, under the direction of Kelsey, put soil into the cell trays and planted two seeds in each cell, a mixture of herbs, vegetables and flowers.
The next visit was 4th April, when 4” pots were painted. “The opportunity to get our students out into the community and connecting with others is a gift. Getting to participate in the Green Thumbs Project over a series of months fosters continued connection between residents and students. And, of course, plant growth and observation are part of our learning outcomes, but even more, is such an interest and useful skill for our students to learn about. We have so much gratitude for this special project!” –Rose Benoit, Teacher
“I’m looking forward to painting the pots and transplanting the plants into them” –Madison, Grade 7
“I’m looking forward to watching the plants grow” – Cali, Grade 7
“I’m grateful to do the Green Thumbs project because I like working with people in the community and seeing the plants grow with them.” – Farrah, Grade 7
The last visit was 9th May, just before Mother’s Day when the growing plants will be transplanted into the pots and ready to take home as gifts.