Making a difference in the community
Tenant of 291 George Street gives back.
When we arrived at 291 George Street, Adrian Scantlebury greeted us with a warm smile and led us straight to the community garden he had been working hard on.
He proudly showed us the raised garden beds, pointing to the flowers blooming along the edge, and the vegetables he’s planted. These tomatoes, herbs, and leafy greens were brought to life through a beautification project Adrian led this year. “Gardening calms the mind,” he said with a smile. “But it also brings people together.”
Adrian Scantlebury in the backyard of 291 George Street.
That sense of care and community is what defines Adrian’s work as a tenant leader—a role he’s held for over 12 years. From food programs to community meetings, Adrian has become a regular fixture at 291 George Street. He says the value of giving back was something he learned early on from his parents. “Growing up I saw my parents always lending a helping hand and giving back to the community,” he says. “It stuck with me, and I wanted to do the same.”
Earlier this year, Adrian received an $8,000 grant from the City of Toronto to launch a breakfast program. Twice a month, tenants would gather in the community room for a hot, healthy meal. “It made a real difference,” Adrian recalled. “People had lots to eat, and it brought us together like a family.”
Adrian also organizes monthly food bank deliveries, preparing flyers and making sure every tenant knows that the food arrives on the last Tuesday of every month. He also helps run building meetings, keeping tenants informed and connected.
He’s always thinking ahead. His dream is hosting more social events like an ice cream day or a barbecue. Adrian is also hopeful the breakfast program might return one day. “I like helping people get good nutrition,” he says.
Whether through raised garden beds, warm breakfasts, or simply lending an ear, Adrian has made a real and lasting difference in the lives of those around him.
