Ribbon cutting for Grande Prairie’s Blossoming Garden of Hope

Jun 10, 2023 | 6:00 AM

A project seven years in the making culminated with the ribbon cutting at Grande Prairie’s Blossoming Garden of Hope Thursday.

The garden is for anyone mourning the passing of a child, including the ones lost during pregnancy.

The garden is a joint effort from Tiny Hands of Hope and The Compassionate Friends Grande Chapter.

It includes various sculptures, a gazebo, new sod and trees meant to bloom at different times of the year.

Photo by Curtis Galbraith.

It is not just intended for parents, but siblings, extended family, even teachers and coaches.

Organizers say it is meant to give those grieving a child a sense of healing, community and hope.

The Blossoming Garden of Hope is located in Maskwoteh Park, east of the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital.

The city provided the land and will take over park maintenance.

Photo by Curtis Galbraith.

Blossoming Garden of hope project co-leads Elizabeth Naeth from The Compassionate Friends Grande Prairie Chapter and Karen Gilkyson from Tiny Hands of Hope speak at Thursday’s ribbon cutting. Photo by Curtis Galbraith.

Photo by Curtis Galbraith.

by Curtis Galbraith