At Black Creek Community Farm (BCCF), we believe that food is more than just nourishment—it is a source of empowerment, resilience, and cultural identity. That’s why we are excited to announce the launch of our Roots to Community Resilience: Market Garden Training Pilot Program, funded through the City of Toronto’s Confronting Anti-Black Racism program. This initiative is designed to equip Black newcomers, refugees, and community members with the skills and resources needed to thrive in urban agriculture while strengthening food sovereignty in the Black Creek/Humber River community.

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Why This Program Matters

The impacts of anti-Black racism extend into the food system, where Black farmers and food entrepreneurs face systemic barriers to land, resources, and economic opportunities. At BCCF, we recognize that access to culturally relevant food, agricultural knowledge, and financial stability are key to building a more equitable food system. This program aims to bridge that gap by providing hands-on training in sustainable farming, market operations, and food entrepreneurship.

What Participants Will Learn

The Market Garden Training Pilot Program offers two cohorts—one running from April to July and the other from July to October. Participants will engage in weekly sessions covering:

🌱 Urban Farming & Agroecology – Learning soil health, composting, greenhouse operations, and how to cultivate culturally relevant crops.
💧 Water & Pest Management – Sustainable irrigation techniques and organic pest control methods.
🥕 Market Garden Operations – Hands-on experience in harvesting, post-harvest handling, and running farm stands.
🍛 Food & Nutrition Education – Understanding the role of culturally relevant crops in nutrition and food security.
📈 Entrepreneurship & Economic Pathways – Training in farm business planning, supply chain management, and connecting with Black-owned markets and restaurants.
👥 Community Leadership & Advocacy – Developing skills to engage in food justice movements and advocate for Black food sovereignty.

Who Can Apply? 

Participants will also receive a stipend to support their engagement and development of the program. If you are a newcomer of African Caribbean descent, register here [link]. As a pilot initiative, we are prioritizing Black community members, particularly Black newcomers, immigrants, and refugees, who are interested in gaining agricultural skills, exploring entrepreneurship, and strengthening local food systems. When the program expands, it will also welcome post-secondary students, gardeners, and emerging farmers.

Building a More Just and Sustainable Food System

By investing in Black food sovereignty and economic opportunities, the Market Garden Training Pilot Program will support long-term solutions to food insecurity while preserving and celebrating African, Caribbean, and Black foodways. This is about more than farming—it’s about reclaiming knowledge, strengthening our communities, and creating pathways for future generations of Black growers and food leaders.

Join Us!

If you or someone you know is interested in participating, stay connected with us for upcoming application details. For more information, visit our website or contact us at produce@blackcreekfarm.ca

Together, let’s cultivate change, one seed at a time!