Bulletin - November 2024
At MetroWorks, every project tells a unique story. Whether it’s pioneering financial literacy in Nova Scotia, celebrating the harvest season with smashing success, or creating art and connection in our spaces, our work is rooted in supporting individuals and strengthening our community. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how we’re making an impact this month.
Blazing New Trails: Financial Literacy Takes Centre Stage
In early November, Money Path Atlantic hosted Nova Scotia’s first-ever financial literacy conference in Truro, and it was a resounding success! Titled Mapping Financial Resilience, this groundbreaking event brought together community leaders, financial experts, and advocates to explore how we can collectively support financial well-being across Atlantic Canada.
Timed perfectly with Financial Literacy Month, the conference aligned with this year’s theme: "Money on Your Mind. Talk About It!" Through engaging sessions, expert talks, and thought-provoking discussions, participants gained valuable tools and insights to take back to their communities.
Highlights of the Day:
Keynote by Aseel El-Baba (Holistic Optimal Wealth): Toronto-based financial therapist shared trauma-informed strategies for managing finances while prioritizing mental wellness.
Surviving Predatory Lenders with Keith Taylor (DUCA Impact Lab): Strategies for avoiding high-interest payday loans and breaking free from financial traps.
Q&A with David Harrison (Nova Scotia Securities Commission): A deep dive into savings, investments, and cryptocurrency, with answers to attendees’ burning questions.
Lightning Talks from Top Organizations: Insights and resources from ABC Life Literacy Canada, The Credit Counselling Society, CPA Canada, and Prosper Canada, empowering attendees with tools to improve financial literacy in their communities.
Adding a fun twist to the day, attendees embraced the conference’s outdoorsy theme by donning hiking-inspired attire, a nod to the journey of financial resilience — filled with ups, downs, and breathtaking rewards. A special thank-you to Ulnooweg Development Group Inc. for sharing their stories and to everyone who participated in this pioneering event. Together, we’re charting a path toward a future where financial literacy is accessible, trauma-informed, and rooted in community.
12th Annual Harvest Hootenanny & Pumpkin Smash Closes Out Harvest Season
The 12th Annual Harvest Hootenanny and Pumpkin Smash at Common Roots Urban Farm BiHi marked a joyful end to the growing season. Held on November 2nd, the event welcomed over 250 community members to celebrate fall with activities, food, and music.
Highlights of the day included pumpkin smashing, garlic planting, fresh apple cider pressing, flax processing with the Flaxmobile, a scavenger hunt, and live music by Big Country. Attendees also enjoyed a delicious vegetarian community meal prepared by participants of the Newcomer Women Employability Program and Stone Hearth Bakery.
This beloved event would not have been possible without the support of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, Councillor Shawn Cleary, MLA Ali Duale, and the many volunteers and attendees who made it a success.
Now that both BiHi and Woodside farms are prepared for winter, the Common Roots team is busy planning next year’s events and projects. As the season winds down, we’re reminded of the incredible power of community and the connections that continue to grow year after year.
A Cool Contribution from Food Banks Canada
This month we had the arrival of a brand-new walk-in fridge and freezer, made possible through a contribution from Food Banks Canada. This national organization supports food banks across the country, including Feed Nova Scotia, to strengthen food security in communities. The funding came through Food Banks Canada’s Sustainable Food Initiative Innovation Grant. This industrial fridge and freezer allow us to store large quantities of fresh produce and raw ingredients for longer periods without spoilage.
With this increased storage capacity, we can better support initiatives like Meals on Wheels, which delivers nourishing meals to those in need. We can also accept surplus produce from local farms — even in large quantities. It’s another step forward in our efforts to provide support for food insecurity in our community. Thank you, Food Banks Canada, for making this possible!
OPTIONS Team: November Highlights
The OPTIONS team has been busy this month! Three team members attended the Money Path Conference, gaining valuable insights to better support program participants. Four staff also completed the two-day ESAT Assessor Training, equipping them with tools to help participants develop vital employability skills like adaptability, confidence, and collaboration. Alicia and Chef Wayne tackled the vibrant blue and pink staff bathrooms, giving them a new look with a calming beige. And lastly, the entire OPTIONS team was invited to a luncheon hosted by the Nova Scotia Career Development Association (NSCDA). It was a fantastic opportunity to present their program, exchange knowledge, and strengthen connections with NSCDA staff, who were gracious and welcoming hosts.
EDGE Wall Painting: A Creative Touch
Did you know the EDGE team is as artistic as they are dedicated? In between empowering youth with life and employment skills, the staff found time to paint the EDGE logo on their room's wall. But they didn’t stop there! To make the space even more special, they invited staff and participants to add their handprints around the logo, creating a vibrant and personal frame. This growing collection of handprints symbolizes the community, connection, and collaboration at the heart of the EDGE program. Stop by and see this meaningful piece of art next time you visit!
Stone Hearth Bakery Shines at the Hope Blooms Holiday Market
On December 5th, Stone Hearth Bakery joined the Hope Blooms Holiday Market, bringing festive cheer and delicious baked goods to the final Farmers’ Market of the year.
The event, held at 2346 Brunswick Street, was a wonderful celebration of the holiday season. Visitors enjoyed fresh products, holiday crafts, and sweet treats. And not to be biased, but we think Stone Hearth Bakery’s offerings added a special warmth to the evening.
Organized by Hope Blooms, the market supported their mission of empowering at-risk youth and fostering community engagement in Halifax’s inner city. By improving food security, education, and social inclusion, Hope Blooms continues to make a meaningful impact. Did you get to visit the market and support some local vendors?
Bel the Barber: Small Acts, Big Impact
For many in our community, a simple haircut can make a world of difference. This past month, Bel the Barber returned to provide free haircuts to our program participants. Not only did Bel meet the needs of everyone on the appointment list, but they also went above and beyond, offering their services to those on the waitlist as well. We are incredibly grateful to Bel for their continued commitment to our community. Their kindness reminds us that even small gestures can create a big impact, especially for those who need it most.
Stone Hearth Catering Highlights
The Stone Hearth Catering team continued to cater some amazing events this month. Here are some photos from a little surf and turf menu! If you’re interested in having Stone Hearth cater your next event, you can email catering@stonehearth.ca!
From financial resilience to food security and community celebration, these stories highlight the heart of MetroWorks: people, progress, and connection. As we look ahead to new challenges and opportunities, we’re inspired by the incredible support of our community and partners. Stay tuned for more ways we’re making a difference together.
