The Living Centre is planning a big expansion. Trying to raise $85,000, the local permaculture centre is looking to revamp their land and add some key infrastructure, such as:
- Creating an off-the-grid natural-building teaching space
- Installing a certified kitchen
- Creating a children’s forest school area
- Greenhouses
- Washrooms with composting toilets
- Native plant trails
Also on their wish list is seed money for new businesses like a farmer’s market and for entrepreneurs looking to utilize the space.
The Living Centre was started 40 years ago when Shantree Kacera started to grow organic food. Kacera says that after a few years it slowly developed into an educational space, as not many people knew about organic living at the time. His wife, Lorena Bousquet-Kacera, says that the Living Centre is always adapting, and for good reason. A lifestyle, she says, accompanies everything.
“Can we talk about nutrition without talking about the garden? Can we talk about the garden without talking about soil? Can we talk about community without talking about the work . . . its all woven together.”
Over time and through the efforts of Shantree, Lorena, and community members, the 50-acre space took on more and more projects. As 40 years went on, the land bloomed.
Their goal is to get more people involved with the Living Centre. With gardens, trails, forests, and meadows, they have more than enough space to go around. They’re encouraging Londoners to visit the space and donate, where they can.
You can donate to the Living Centre’s fundraising campaign here.
