The Graceful Aging Through Connecting with Nature project wrapped up this past weekend with the final two events.
Saturday, the Heart Lake Turtle Troopers hosted a Pollinator Planting at Donnelly Park East. Eighteen participants attended including six seniors. Fifty planting sites were established using a mixture of native wildflower and grass seeds. The City of Brampton provided the seeds. Bob Noble, a local resident and naturalist, gave a “pollinator talk” about the different plant species, the importance of biodiversity and the ecosystem services provided by pollinator birds and insects.

Participant feedback for the event was very positive. One said, “It was wonderful being able to come out and help with the planting and talk to others in the community”. Another commented, “I used to sign up for a lot of recurring events, but these days I just love being able to come and help at community events like this!”

In 2022 the Heart Lake Turtle Troopers Group became the official stewards of Donnelly Park East through the City’s Adopt a Park Program. In addition to planting pollinator seeds and protecting turtle nests in the park, the group has also removed litter and wrapped over 40 hardwood trees to protect them from beaver damage. Through this stewardship the group hopes to maintain the park and its wetland areas as a healthy and balanced eco-system.

On Sunday, People Against Littering held their final GATCWN park clean up event at Flower City Park. Twenty-two participants attended including 11 seniors. Lots of garbage was picked up in a seemingly clean area including some very large pieces of litter.
Sonia Sidhu, MP Brampton South was a featured guest who gave the group a certificate in recognition of their volunteer efforts to make Brampton the first litter-free city in Canada.

“I am truly inspired by the volunteers of the People Against Littering – Brampton community group”, said MP Sidhu. “They love their community and work together to educate others. I encourage residents, especially youth to learn more about community engagement programs they run and the values they promote.”
Amisha brought wraps from her Food Quotient restaurant that were enjoyed by all. Participants expressed interest in continuing the clean up mission throughout the winter.
The last event in the Bramalea SNAP Healthy Towers project was held this past Wednesday at Knightsbridge Park and Knightsbridge Park South. A small yet enthusiastic group assembled for gentle stretching with Susan followed by snacks.

Participants received a grocery gift certificate for answering questions about the natural environment in the park.

Leo commented he enjoyed the session very much and that, “Susan is a gifted and talented instructor!”
