Nathan’s Urban Farm: Cultivating Legacy and Community in London, ON

When Mona Lam-Deslippe first set up her vegetable-growing operation in the office of her downtown London condo, the glow from her towers – hydroponic systems that grow produce without soil – piqued the curiosity of her neighbors. Little did they know, they were witnessing the early stages of an initiative set to honor the memory of her late son, Nathan Deslippe.

These towers, which glow brightly like spaceships, are the heart of Nathan’s Urban Farm. The indoor farming method is not your typical soil and water affair, but a hydroponic system that works year-round and uses significantly less water than traditional farming. Mona and her husband Tim would grow produce like lettuce, arugula, and edible flowers, and distribute them to local agencies such as the London Food Bank, Youth Opportunities Unlimited, and Anova.

Nathan’s Urban Farm is a beacon in London’s urban agriculture scene and the latest venture of the Nathan T. Deslippe Memorial Fund. This project was set in motion to remember Nathan, who tragically lost his life in 2016. The farm recently celebrated its grand opening at its new location in The Grove, an agri-business hub at the Western Fair District.

The initiative has garnered support from the London Community Foundation and Medavie Health Foundation, and it’s managed by Hutton House, a charity dedicated to aiding people with disabilities. Nathan’s Urban Farm isn’t just about growing food; it’s about offering agricultural skills training and horticultural therapy. “We’re providing food for people that are food-insecure,” said Joe Gansevles, the co-ordinator of urban agriculture and environmental sustainability at Hutton House.

One of the many innovations of Nathan’s Urban Farm is its pesticide-free operation, ensuring the produce is clean and healthy. Additionally, the farm stands out by distributing the bulk of its produce by bicycle, merging sustainable farming with eco-friendly delivery methods.

Since the loss of Nathan Deslippe, his family and friends have rallied to keep his spirit alive through various community efforts and fundraising activities. The memorial fund has continually sought ways to give back to the community, aligning with Nathan’s inspirational ethos. The ultimate goal of Nathan’s Urban Farm is to create a model that can be emulated by other communities.

Mona Lam-Deslippe envisions Nathan’s Urban Farm as a lasting legacy for her son. “It’s such a wonderful fit for his memory,” she said. “This is a project that can carry on for years to come. It’s not a one-time event, but something that continually serves the community.” Through dedication and innovation, Nathan’s Urban Farm is more than just a tribute; it’s a flourishing example of community spirit and sustainable living in London, ON.