We spent a beautiful afternoon at Rideau Pines Farms with Indigenous youth from our community. Thanks to a grant from ONWA, we were able to host this land-based activity and spend time together in nature—picking berries and fresh vegetables straight from the fields.
For many of us who live in the city, we don’t often get the chance to see where our food comes from. But being on the land, feeling the dirt under our hands, and seeing berries grow on their plants reminds us that every meal starts somewhere—on the earth, in a garden, or on a farm.
It was more than just berry picking. We laughed, shared stories, and connected with each other while filling our baskets. We learned how much care goes into tending a garden and how our ancestors relied on the land to feed their families.
This experience matters. When we understand where our food comes from, we build respect for the land, for the people who grow it, and for the traditions that have always been part of Indigenous culture. We left Rideau Pines Farms with full baskets, full hearts, and a stronger connection to each other and the land.
We’re so grateful to ONWA for helping make this day possible. We can’t wait to keep learning, sharing, and growing together.