Kingston Community Climate Action Fund achieves fundraising goal for Extend-A-Family Kingston project

The GrowAbility Hydroponic Greenhouse Project will now upgrade and scale the operations of two hydroponic greenhouses that are capable of producing more than 10,000 heads of fresh, locally grown produce every year. By utilizing hydroponic technology, the project will use 90% less water than traditional farming, eliminating the need for soil, avoiding greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and increasing climate resiliency by sustainably producing local food year-round. 

“We are thrilled to successfully reach our fundraising goal for the 2025 Kingston Community Climate Action Fund campaign, supporting Extend-A-Family Kingston’s Community GrowAbility Hydroponic Greenhouse project. This project will provide healthy, local, sustainably produced food for those in need in our community and create new opportunities for people of all abilities to foster new skills and a sense of belonging, says Soren Christianson, Project Manager, City of Kingston.  “This successful outcome would not have been possible without our key partnership with the Kingston Community Credit Union, and above all else, the generosity of all those who supported the campaign. Thanks to everyone who made this vision a reality and stay tuned as the KCCAF continues to make an impact year over year!”  

The KCCAF fundraising goal for this project was $30,000. Fundraising took place from December 2024 through March 2025 and 100 per cent of the funds raised will go to the Extend-A-Family project. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the City of Kingston and everyone who supported the Community Climate Action Fund campaign. Thanks to this funding, our hydroponics program can expand to provide over 10,000 heads of fresh produce annually, while also offering inclusive, hands-on learning opportunities for people of all abilities. This project is not only about growing food — it’s about growing community, sustainability, and belonging.” says Ian Cholmondeley, Extend-a-Family Kingston’s Program Manager of Innovation, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.  

Now in its fifth year, the KCCAF continues to support innovative local initiatives that drive climate action and foster community engagement. Thanks to the partnership with KCCU and the generosity of the Kingston community, 100% of donations will directly support the GrowAbility project. 

“Without significant emissions reductions over the near term, the world will see more extreme weather events, and over the next two decades global warming above the targeted 1.5 degrees Celsius. The adverse impact will globally and locally be greatest for the vulnerable and marginalized,” said Jon Dessau, CEO, Kingston Community Credit Union. “KCCU’s mission is to improve the financial wellbeing of the community we live in, and nothing is more meaningful than helping Extend-A-Family and other local organizations become part of the solution with our support for the Kingston Community Climate Action Fund.” 

About the Kingston Community Climate Action Fund

The Kingston Community Climate Action Fund was established by the City of Kingston to promote and financially support impactful local projects that address climate change. By raising awareness and providing funding, the program encourages community members to take part in meaningful climate action. Each year, a local charity is selected to lead a community-supported initiative aimed at advancing sustainability goals. Learn more about the KCCAF at CityofKingston.ca/KCCAF.