Preserving community in Guelph's Junction neighbourhood

"A tight knit neighbourhood community looks to find a creative solution to address the affordable housing crisis in Guelph.

For 18 years, Junction Village Guelph (JVG) offers a shared community space for neighbours to gather, connect and share."

Junction Village Guelph co-founders Mary-Kate and Mike Craig. Barbara Latkowski / GuelphToday

The space is used as a 'public commons', an event tent, potluck dinners, a weekly summer food drop-o

An accessory dwelling in the Junction Village backyard. Barbara Latkowski / GuelphToday

At the heart of the Junction neighbourhood, are three properties on Meadowview Ave. at 45, 46 and 47

The JVG is a community space for neighbours to connect and share. Barbara Latkowski / GuelphToday

"At the heart of the Junction neighbourhood, are three properties on Meadowview Ave. at 45, 46 and 47 with one 200 ft backyard that spans 100 ft across.

The space is used as a 'public commons', and includes an event tent, potluck dinners, a weekly summer food drop-off, community gardens, a skating rink, trampoline, community meetings, outdoor movie screenings, a sauna and pool.

The goal for JVG co-founders Mike and Mary Kate Craig, is to transform the urban community into a space for neighbours to reflect, connect and play.

Several friends have also purchased houses in the neighbourhood, growing a community, that today, has sharing gardens, bulk food, child care, dog walking, as well as many other opportunities to 'help' one another."