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Growing Community,
Growing Together

We aim to improve food security and lead environmental stewardship in Thorncliffe Park through activism, education and community engagement.

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Thorncliffe Park Urban Farmers (TPUF) is a community-based, urban farming and ecological restoration group located in the high-density neighbourhood of Thorncliffe Park, Toronto. Through hands-on community engagement, we work to improve food security, restore urban biodiversity, and foster environmental stewardship.

We maintain two communal vegetable gardens on residential high-rise properties and care for over 20 fruit trees throughout the neighbourhood. All harvests are shared freely with residents and volunteers.

In a neighbourhood with limited green space, TPUF transforms underutilized and neglected land into productive gardens and vibrant pollinator habitats, supporting wildlife, climate resilience, and community well-being.

Our work reduces barriers to healthy, nutritious food while offering children, youth, and families opportunities in:

  • Environmental education
  • Arts and creative expression
  • Skilled trades
  • Youth leadership and employment

By engaging in hands-on opportunities to support their community, volunteers of all ages develop a deep connection to their neighbourhood, along with a sense of responsibility, accomplishment, and pride, as they work alongside residents to address shared challenges.

Thorncliffe Park Urban Farmers is a member of FoodShare Toronto’s Supportive Partnership’s Platform

Highlights

Olivia Chow and Michelle from Thorncliffe Park Urban Farmers

2025 June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award

TPUF was the recipient of 2025 June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism – Group Category – Province of Ontario!

TPUF garden art magazine 2025

TPUF Garden Art magazine 2025

We are incredibly grateful to our supporters! Collectively, we make an impact on a high-needs community in many different aspects.

Upcoming Events

Join us for workshops, celebrations, and community gatherings

Coming Soon

March 15 @ 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Coming Soon

March 28 @ 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Coming Soon

April 15 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Our Programs

Empowering our community through hands-on urban farming education and sustainable practices

TPUF Achievements

Together, we’re creating lasting change in our community

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lbs of produce harvested & distributed in 2025
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Volunteer hours worked in the gardens in 2025
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Native species introduced in pollinator gardens
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Youth mentored through Green Team Leaders
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lbs of organic waste diverted from landfill

Our Garden Gallery

Explore the beauty of our urban farming community through these snapshots

Community Stories

Hear from the volunteers and community members making a difference

“Coming to the garden has completely changed my days. I feel calmer and more relaxed whenever I spend time here. The fresh air and greenery help clear my mind and lift my mood. Even small tasks like watering the plants or picking vegetables give me a sense of purpose. I notice that I sleep better and feel less stressed after visiting the garden. It’s become my safe space in the city where I can take a break from everything. I honestly don’t know how I managed without it before.”

J., 53 Resident

“I am just gonna say one word, and that is “Phenomenal”.”

Abdul, 53 Resident

“Being part of the garden has given me a sense of community that I didn’t have before. I see familiar faces every week, and we greet each other warmly and offer help when needed. Everyone is invested in making the garden beautiful, and it shows. We share tools, seeds, and advice, and that cooperation makes the experience so rewarding. It’s wonderful to see people of all ages working together. I feel more connected to my neighbours and more proud of my home because of this shared space. The garden has transformed our community into a place where people truly care for each other.

Asma, 53 Resident

I love that the garden brings a touch of nature to our busy neighbourhood. The greenery, flowers, and fresh vegetables makes a real difference to the environment. I see how it helps air quality, attracts wildlife, and encourages sustainable living. It inspires me to make small changes in my own life too. The garden also teaches children and visitors about caring for the earth. Every time I walk past, I feel uplifted and hopeful. It’s a place that proves that even a small effort can have a big impact on the environment and our community. 

Hamza, 53 Resident

The garden has made me more aware of my surroundings and the environment. It’s amazing to see how even a small green space can make a neighbourhood feel alive.

Hashim, 71 Resident

“The gardens are so good. I love it here. My family comes here every year. Even though we live in Flemingdon, we always come here because of the sense of community and the fun. Everything feels so fresh and so perfect here.” 

Shahzad, Flemingdon Resident

“I have been volunteering at the garden. The garden has made me more aware of my surroundings and the environment. It’s amazing to see how even a small green space can make a neighbourhood feel alive. I notice more birds, insects, and greenery around me now. Being part of this garden makes me feel like I’m contributing to something meaningful. The composting and sustainable practices we follow also make me more conscious of waste. I feel proud that I’m helping the environment in a small but important way. Seeing the garden flourish reminds me that nature thrives when people care for it.”

Youth Participant

“I love it here. I come every year with my siblings and it just makes me feel so connected to nature. I am going to volunteer more and try to support such a good initiative. “

Youth Participant, Flemingdon Resident

“I just love it here. I come sometimes because of my busy schedule but whenever I am here I feel so nice and welcoming. Everyone is working so hard and they are keeping the gardens so nice.”

Fatima, Thorncliffe Resident

“The gardens are a way for me to feel connected to the community. I love coming here. “

Hameeda, 53 Resident

“The garden has helped me connect with neighbours I’ve never met before. We share stories, gardening tips, and sometimes even meals we’ve grown ourselves. There’s a sense of camaraderie that I’ve never experienced elsewhere. Working side by side with others makes me feel like I belong to something bigger than myself. Even people who were strangers now feel like friends. We celebrate small successes together, like a good harvest or a blooming flower. The garden has truly become a hub of friendship and support in our community.”

Brar, 53 Resident

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