15 Years of Community Transformation: The Lasting Impact of SNAP

For the past 15 years, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s (TRCA) Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program (SNAP) has been leading the way in transforming communities across the Greater Toronto Area into greener, healthier, and more resilient places to live.

TRCA staff conduct a home retrofit consultation with Ajax SNAP neighbourhood residents

Through a variety of innovative projects, we have collaborated closely with our municipal partners, local residents, and local community groups to tackle environmental challenges and create vibrant, sustainable public spaces.

TRCA team member helps a Black Creek SNAP neighbourhood resident install a rain barrel on her property
residential tower residents in a SNAP neighbourhood tend to the community vegetable garden
a TRCA team member conducts a home energy retrofit consultation with an Ajax SNAP neighbourhood resident

Here are just a few of the ways SNAP and our partners have made a difference:

  • Greening urban spaces: Planting almost 16,000 trees and shrubs, developing green areas that offer shade, improve air quality, and enhance the beauty of our neighbourhoods.
  • Community gardens and local food programs: Empowering residents with fresh, locally grown produce while fostering a shared sense of stewardship and community connection.
  • Sustainable stormwater management: Installing permeable pavements and rain gardens that naturally filter and absorb stormwater, reducing runoff, preventing flooding, and beautifying public spaces.
  • Energy-efficient home retrofits: Helping homeowners to lower energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions with practical, climate-friendly upgrades.
  • Water conservation initiatives: Implementing rainwater harvesting systems and other innovative methods to reduce flooding risks and make efficient use of natural resources.
West Bolton SNAP neighbourhood resident helps to plant a rain garden on a residential property
Rexdale SNAP neighbourhood residents take part in a litter cleanup event
a Black Creek SNAP neighbourhood resident displays her thriving balcony vegetable garden
Black Creek SNAP neighbourhood residents take part in a planting event to enhance a local green space
West Bolton SNAP residents install LED bulbs and a smart thermostat as part of a Green Home Program energy efficiency retrofit
SNAP neighbourhood residents take part in an action plan development workshop

“For the past 15 years, SNAP has been a shining example of what’s possible when we come together with a shared vision for the future,” said Darryl Gray, TRCA’s Director of Education and Training.

“The success of this program reflects the passion, dedication, and innovative spirit of everyone involved – from TRCA’s teams to our community partners. Together, we’ve not only transformed physical spaces, but also strengthened the bonds between people and the environment, setting the foundation for a more sustainable and resilient future.”

Bramalea SNAP neighbourhood resident helps to tend a community pollinator garden

Join the Celebration!

We invite you to share your stories and memories of how SNAP has impacted your community. Visit trca.ca/SNAP15 to explore our journey and add your voice to our community message board.

Ajax SNAP neighbourhood residents take part in a community fire safety workshop
Bramalea SNAP community champions take part in a planting event to beautify a local green space
TRCA team member leads a Rexdale SNAP food security workshop

Be part of the conversation on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and X: like, share, and comment on posts to help us spread the word!

Together, let’s celebrate 15 years of transformation and look ahead to an even greener, more resilient future.