Lea Hibbs, licensed practical nurse supervisor

The Joy West balcony garden was born from one person’s deep desire to make a difference for the residents she serves. Many residents often shared with Lea Hibbs that they missed gardening, but could no longer join the gardening club or go downstairs to the gardening bed due to the distance and decline in their medical status. Lea heard their longing and immediately envisioned the balcony garden as a place they could still feel purpose, joy and connection.

The residents helped choose what to grow — flowers, vegetables, beans and strawberries — making them partners at every step. When the gardening season ended, the residents again chose the themes, colours and decorations for the seasonal transition. Families saw their loved ones’ pride, involvement and renewed energy. The project honours residents as full partners, giving them something meaningful to enjoy everyday.

Lea set the plan for the garden in motion through teamwork and being a good steward of resources. The Joy West care staff carried planters upstairs, used donated seeds and worked with what they had. Lea focused on reusing, repurposing and keeping costs low. She prepared lightweight 500 mL watering bottles so residents could manage them easily.

The balcony garden became a place of healing. Residents who could not go far due to their health could participate in the garden. With encouragement, a resident, struggling with mental illness, comorbidities and many suicide attempts, became the garden supervisor. Spending time in the garden brought her peace.