Increasing Biodiversity with Grant Funding from Retired Teachers of Ontario

Butterfly pollinating a pint flower and supporting biodiversity

TBG is excited to announce that the Retired Teachers of Ontario (RTOERO) District 23 has provided grant funding to support local biodiversity by planting native bulbs and enhancing accessibility and community through the installation of two benches. 

Addressing Biodiversity Loss 

Biodiversity loss negatively affects local ecosystems by increasing CO2 emissions, breeding pests, and endangering local species. Planting native flora can help reverse biodiversity loss and provide habitat and food for hundreds of species.  

TBG and District 23 will reduce biodiversity loss by planting at least 4,500 bulbs and plants and purchasing strawbales, mulch, and soil to support their growth. We’ll buy plant labels so visitors can identify native plants and inspire their gardening journey.  

Promoting Community & Accessibility 

By installing new benches, TBG and RTOERO will improve the accessibility of our site. We’ll provide older adults and individuals with mobility challenges with comfortable seating to enjoy equal access to our free urban green space. 

Park benches are often overlooked, but they offer numerous benefits. A recent study concluded that public furniture, such as park benches and tables, has a significant social, cultural, economic, and environmental impact on public spaces. 

Accessible bench seating encourages older adults and individuals with mobility challenges to spend more time outdoors. Research has consistently shown that spending time in nature can improve mental health and increase our ability to focus. By providing outdoor seating and tables, we can create an environment that encourages visitors to spend more time outside, thereby reducing stress. 

Outdoor seating can also help combat loneliness and depression, which are on the rise due to social isolation. Loneliness can have detrimental effects on the body, leading to inflammation and chronic disease. By providing park benches, we offer free outdoor spaces for seniors to connect with others their age. 

Thank you again to RTOERO and District 23 for supporting biodiversity and accessibility at TBG!