The annual Boundary Trails Health Centre plant sale being held Thursday (May 22) is more than a fundraiser. Did you know it’s a testament to a longstanding and deeply valued relationship with local Hutterite colonies?
Judy Stambuski, a dedicated volunteer, has helped lead the initiative for nearly 23 years. At the heart of her efforts is a collaboration rooted in trust, friendship, and a shared passion for beautifying the hospital grounds.
“Well, the plants will [always] come. They come from Miami Colony and they will be there for sale [Thursday],” Stambuski shared ahead of this year’s event. “There'll be all kinds of plants for planting in pots or planting into the ground, petunias and flower annuals. And there'll probably be a few vegetables like tomatoes... But mostly it's flowers.”
Working together
This long-running partnership began organically, based on proximity and mutual support. “I've done business with the Miami Hutterite Colony for many a year,” Stambuski explained. “I talked to some of the people at the colony, and they said, well... maybe we could grow your flowers and... I guess that’s how it took off.”
Over the years, the Miami Colony became the primary supplier of flowers for BTHC’s garden spaces. “They've done it for a lot of years now,” she said.
Related stories:
- NPC student Allyssa Alegro receives 'Make It a Reality Award'
- $10,000 grant supports reconciliation and skill-building for nurses at Boundary Trails Health Centre
Going above and beyond
But the partnership goes far beyond sourcing flowers. Each year, Miami Colony brings a planting crew directly to BTHC for planting week, which usually takes place the first week in June. “They bring all our plants down from Miami Colony to [BTHC], unload them, and they bring roughly 15 gals to do the planting. They plant [it] all in one day.”
Another key part of the partnership is what Stambuski calls the “hoeing program,” where five local colonies volunteer to maintain the flowerbeds weekly after planting. “Each week we have to hoe in order to keep the weeds down... So, [five different] Hutterite colonies take a week,” she said. “They pick all the weeds... and it makes it look just beautiful.”
The five colonies involved include Pembina, Skyview, Miami, Rosebank, and Blumengart. They rotate their weeks through the summer, often volunteering for additional dates when needed. “They jump at the chance to do it, and we're so appreciative of that.”
Stambuski notes that through shared work and a shared vision for a welcoming hospital environment, the relationship with the Hutterite colonies has blossomed into something truly special.
Come on down!
The plant sale takes place on Thursday, May 22, from 9 am – 5 pm. There will also be a barbecue lunch from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, as well as a raffle. All funds raised will support beautifying the Boundary Trails Health Centre grounds through flowers and plants, for patients and staff to enjoy.
To make donations, contact event coordinator Judy Stambuski at 204-362-0618.