Two green thumbs up
Your generosity helps residents flourish, grow and thrive—one garden at a time.
For years, the Green Thumbs gardening project at St. Joseph’s Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care has brought joy, purpose and a sense of connection to residents. Supported almost entirely through the generosity of donors, the program has grown into something truly special offering not just plants and produce, but a chance for people to thrive.
Therapeutic Recreation Aides Emily McCarthy and Phung have been instrumental to the project’s success. They
have been helping to lead this resident club for the past year, an experience they find deeply rewarding.
“It’s such a meaningful project for residents,” says McCarthy. “And every shovel, rake and plant has been provided by donors. Without them, this wouldn’t be possible.”
The Green Thumbs project offers more than just fresh air—it provides enrichment and community.
Every season, residents help decide what to grow. This year, it’s tomatoes, peppers and herbs. Garden beds in the courtyard are planted and maintained by residents, who take pride in watching their work bloom through the seasons.
The staff also adapt programming to the weather, and offer gardening trivia, education and hands-on planting sessions indoors and out, as well as decorating from the garden harvest.
“The most rewarding part,” says McCarthy, “is seeing how excited the residents get when something they planted begins to grow. They’re proud of what they’ve created.”
One regular participant is Helga, a 95-year old resident and avid gardener. Helga never misses a session and fills her room with houseplants.
“She lights up when she’s in the garden,” says Phung. “It’s beautiful to see.”
The program also invites the broader community to come in. One recent highlight was a visit from a special needs high school class, where the students benefitted from the therapeutic aspects of caring for plants and gardening.
Both McCarthy and Phung are clear: none of this would be possible without the support of donors.
“We want to say a huge thank you,” says Phung. “You’ve helped create something truly special. It’s more than a garden. It’s a place where residents feel alive, connected and accomplished.”
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Your gift will support patients at St. Joseph's when they need it most.