May 2022, Chilliwack Bowls of Hope opened the Community Roots Garden in partnership with the University of the Fraser Valley Agricultural Student Association and the City of Chilliwack. We have more than 20 garden allotments with a mix between raised beds, accessible garden beds, and large, open allotments.  

The Community Roots Garden is sectioned in three main areas. The first is a large communal garden where all community members are free to plant, garden, and tend to the variety of crops available. The harvest will then be split among those who have tended to the allotment together and with food security programs in Chilliwack. 

The second area is reserved for private allotments. Community garden members can apply to rent a plot on a yearly basis that is reserved strictly for that member. While private members are provided a distinct area, they are still encouraged to take part in the communal allotment.  

The third section is the Garden Agora (“Gathering place”). This area is meant to allow for communal gatherings of communal gardeners, private member, and the general community to foster a greater sense of togetherness. Everyone is invited to relax, visit, and congregate in this area during their gardening.  

While one of the goals of this community garden is to foster greater food sovereignty in our community, Chilliwack Bowls of Hope continues to pursue the growth of a strong and interconnected community. We hope to see this garden develop through the involvement of garden members and the greater Chilliwack community together.