Forward Housing

Forward Housing is an affordable housing provider dedicated to creating homes where everyone can thrive. Forward Housing tenants represent a diverse mix of low-income Calgarians, including families and individuals with mental health challenges, physical disabilities, working individuals earning a low income, seniors, and those leaving homelessness and/or domestic violence. Forward Housing believes in building strong communities within their properties through programming to improve tenants’ quality of life.

This program, a collaboration between Hands-On Growing and Forward Housing, teaches and supports Forward Housing tenants how to grow their own food, bridging the gap in food security that many tenants face. The program is split into two distinct projects: Community Garden (outdoor) and Hydroponic Growing (indoor). For these projects, Hands-On Growing sets up grow systems at Forward Housing; provides free skills training and education to staff and tenants; and fosters community building.

Hands-on Growing prides itself on being inclusive to all and promoting that in the communities we serve. We provide volunteer opportunities for students, adults and seniors from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences. This experience allows us to create meaningful opportunities for Forward Housing tenants to learn and connect through gardening and relationships.

The program was developed with sustainability as a priority and aligns with many of the UN sustainable development goals.

We are grateful to Calgary Foundation for their support of this program.