Welcome to My Presentation on Black Creek Community Farm

Discover insights into Black Creek Community Farm in Toronto through research presented by Inioluwa Lomuwagun

Student Name: Inioluwa Lomuwagun

Institution: Humber College

Professor: Deborah Sergeant

Subject: ECE 242

Black Creek Community Farm

Black Creek Community Farm (BCCF), founded in 2013, is an urban agriculture hub in Toronto focused on sustainable food justice and community empowerment. Located on eight acres in the Jane and Finch area, BCCF provides fresh, organic food to low-income residents while promoting food security and economic growth. The farm offers hands-on training, educational programs, and youth mentorship, collaborating with schools and organizations to create opportunities for underprivileged groups. Its mission emphasizes community enrichment through farming, healthy food, and learning experiences. BCCF’s facilities include farmland, a heritage house, and forested areas, serving as a model for resilience and leadership in food justice.

Black Creek Community Farm

Reflecting on Black Creek Community Farm was an eye-opening experience. It reinforced the notion of how much access to fresh, and affordable food impacts the overall health and well-being of the people. Seeing the farm’s commitment to food justice and community engagement made me appreciate the importance of local initiatives in addressing social determinants of health. The hands-on approach to education and sustainability inspired me to think about my own food choices and how I can contribute to a healthier, more equitable food system.  to me, It was not just about farming, rather it was about building community, reducing barriers, and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive."

BCCF at a Glance

Purpose and Mission

Purpose

Cultivating a vibrant community hub where sustainable food practices spark learning, empowerment, and a shared commitment to food security and ecological well-being

Mission

  • Serve and enrich the community
    • A thriving farm and access to healthy, organic food.
    • Hands-on training and experiential learning opportunities.
  • Inspire the next generation:
    • Providing leadership in food justice.
    • Supporting diverse natural and social ecosystems.
  • Advance equity:
    • Building partnerships to provide mentorship and job opportunities for Black youth and equity-deserving communities

Program and Services

  • Harvest Share (CSA Program):Provides certified organic vegetables through a Community Supported Agriculture model.
  • Field Trips & Educational Workshops: Hands-on learning for schools, youth groups, and adults about urban farming, sustainability, and food systems.
  • Youth Program: Leadership and employment opportunities for Black youth and equity-deserving groups, focusing on food justice and community building.
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Community members can engage in farming activities, events, and food distribution.
  • Team Building & Employee Engagement: Corporate and organizational groups participate in farm-based activities to foster collaboration and sustainability awareness

BCCF Neighborhood's Demographics

Population Diversity

  • High proportion of racialized communities, including Black, Caribbean, Latin American, and South Asian populations.
  • Significant immigrant population, with many newcomers and refugees.

Languages Spoken

  • English is common, but many residents speak Spanish, Somali, Vietnamese, and other languages, reflecting cultural diversity.

Income Levels

  • The area has lower-than-average household incomes compared to Toronto overall.
  • Higher rates of poverty and food insecurity, making food access a critical issue.

Age Distribution

  • Large number of children and youth, as well as families with young children.

Social Determinant of Health

Food Security & Nutrition

  • Harvest Share Program (sliding-scale pricing for affordability)
  • On-site Farm Stand
  • Community food distribution projects

Education & Employment

  • Provides hands-on training, internships, and mentoring for Black youth and equity-deserving groups, improving job prospects and reducing systemic barriers.

Community Engagement & Mental Health

  • The farm acts as a green space and social hub, reducing isolation and promoting mental well-being.
  • Initiatives like community baking days and farm festivals foster social inclusion.

Food Justice & Equity

  • BCCF advocates for food justice, ensuring marginalized communities have a voice in shaping food systems.

Food for thought for BCCF Management

What inspired the founding of Black Creek Community Farm?

What future developments or expansions are planned?

What impact have your youth and senior programs had on the community?

How can individuals or organizations get involved?

How do you measure success in addressing food insecurity?

How does BCCF define and practice food justice?

Location

Toronto, Ontario
Canada

This page is a student project not the organization's official website