Town presents 2020 Environmental Sustainability Award

The recipient of the individual category of the Town’s annual Environmental Sustainability Awards was announced at Orangeville Council. Councillor Grant Peters, Chair of Sustainable Orangeville, presented Gary Skinn with the 2020 Environmental Sustainability Award at a meeting of Orangeville Council. The environmental awards are generally part of Earth Week in April but due to the pandemic the call for nominations was rescheduled. The award recognizes Mr. Skinn for having made a positive environmental contribution to the community.

Mr. Skinn was the first custodian of the Community Garden and Orchard. He spent many hours building and tending to the garden and orchard, and was instrumental in expanding the garden to include a Food Bank Garden. He planted, maintained and harvested the produce for the benefit of the Food Bank clients. The garden was built in a central location close to transit and housing units that cannot offer land for gardens. It is also adjacent to the social community hub to assist clients in need. The garden is used by people of all age groups. It provides a food source and promotes education, physical activity, outdoor activity and friendship.

Councillor Peters had high praise for Mr. Skinn as he announced the award. “Gary has been a local food champion for years and has given countless hours of his time – he is a true asset to the community.”