McHugh Playground Improvement Project

This is a community-led project to reimagine our public space.

The current playground is at the end of its life cycle.

Sunnysiders working with HSCA see the need for a basketball court in Sunnyside with the addition of other amenities such as public seating and a food forest.

A food forest is a garden made up of perennial food plants, such as fruit trees, berry bushes, rhubarb, nuts, herbs, and strawberries.

We see an opportunity to increase green space and food security in our neighbourhood as well as improve our public amenities.

Please email feedback about the food forest: debmwillis@gmail.com

General questions please email: bpagestudio@gmail.com

Celebrate Love & Local at the Share the Love Market: Wednesday, February 12, 3-7pm

Join us EVERY Wednesday from 3-7pm for our weekly Farmers' Market

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but love comes in many forms—love for family, friends, community, and, of course, amazing local products! That’s why we’re bringing you The Share the Love Market, a special edition of our Farmers’ Market that blends festive themed treats with the incredible vendors you know and love. 

What to Expect 

💖 Seasonal-Inspired Goodies – Whether you're looking for heart-shaped pastries, artisan chocolates, or handcrafted gifts, our vendors will have unique, love-filled offerings perfect for your sweetheart—or yourself! 

🛍 Local Favorites – In addition to special themed items, you’ll find all your regular must-haves, from farm-fresh produce to homemade preserves, sustainable goods, and delicious baked treats. 

🌿 Something for Everyone – Whether you’re shopping for a thoughtful gift, a treat for yourself, or just picking up your weekly groceries, the market has a little bit of everything to brighten your day. 

Why Shop Local This Season? 

Supporting local businesses means supporting your neighbors, artisans, and farmers. Every purchase helps sustain small businesses and keeps our community thriving. Plus, handmade gifts and locally sourced goodies always feel more thoughtful and special. 

Event Details 

📅 Date: Wednesday, Feb 12, 3-7pm 
📍 Location: HSCA’s Hearth Room  
 

So, whether you're celebrating love, friendship, or just a great day at the market, come down and join us for The Share the Love Market! We can't wait to share the joy with you.  

Our New & Improved East Entrance is Open

Our New & Improved East Entrance is Open!

If you’ve been by the HSCA this past week, you probably noticed the crew hard at work—pylons, construction materials, and plenty of activity as we transformed our East Entrance Foyer. We’re happy to announce that the work is wrapping up, and the doors are now open for use!

This renovation isn’t just about swapping out doors—it was about creating a more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming entrance for everyone in our community. The newly designed foyer now allows for barrier-free entry and exit, ensuring that all visitors, program participants, volunteers, and staff can move through the space with ease.

What’s Next?

The major construction on the East Entrance is complete, but expect some additional upgrades in the coming weeks to finalize the space. Thanks for your patience as we add the finishing touches!

Thank you for being part of our vibrant HSCA community. We can’t wait to welcome you through our new and improved entrance.

HSCA Spotlight Series: Meet Claire (she/her)

Meet Claire! If you've spent time at HSCA recently, chances are you’ve already crossed paths with her. As our new Community Connections Coordinator, Claire brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a deep love for community-building to her role. You might have seen her at Monday’s Sustainable Food Program, chatting with neighbours during Tuesday’s Sip N’ Chat, or at Neighbour Night. 

Fun fact: Claire grew up right here in Hillhurst! She attended Hillhurst School and has many fond memories of both HSCA’s Flea Market and Farmers’ Market (especially the kettle corn and balloons!), HSCA’s soccer program, and swim lessons at the Bowview Outdoor Pool. 

Let’s get to know Claire… in five questions or less! 

Q: What is your favorite part about HSCA or the Hillhurst Sunnyside community? 

A: A. I love how HSCA is a hub for people to come together and make connections that extend beyond our programs. 

Q: What inspires you? 

A: I am inspired by resiliency, optimism, and authenticity in others. 

Q: What does community mean to you? 

A: Community is more conceptual to me in that it is not only place-based but also centres around people. Community to me is about inclusion, relationships, and shared interests and motivations. 

Q: What’s something that recently made you smile? 

A: My morning coffee with my husband and dog! 

Q. What keeps you busy outside of your role at HSCA? 

A. I keep myself busy outside of HSCA with my other role as a researcher in Women's Health and Homelessness at the University of Calgary. And I love spending quality time with my family and friends. 

Next time you see Claire at HSCA, be sure to say hello! She’s always happy to chat—especially about feminism, camping and canoeing, gluten-free food, and fitness. Welcome to the team, Claire! 

Nominate an Outstanding Community Member for the 2025 Community Service Award

Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond to make a positive impact in Hillhurst Sunnyside? Whether they’re a dedicated volunteer, a neighbour making a difference, or someone whose community service efforts have helped improve the lives of others, now is your chance to recognize them!  

Each year, the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) presents the Community Service Award (CSA) to an individual whose volunteer achievements have contributed to the well-being of our vibrant community. If you know a deserving candidate, we encourage you to nominate them for this special recognition.  

Why Nominate?  

The CSA is more than just an award—it’s an opportunity to celebrate the individuals who make our community stronger. Whether it's through organizing events, offering support to neighbours, or leading initiatives that benefit everyone, these efforts deserve to be acknowledged.  

At last year’s AGM, we had the privilege of recognizing and honoring two outstanding volunteers, LaVerne and Janet, for their tireless contributions to HSCA. Their dedication and many volunteer hours have left a lasting impact on our community, from supporting Tuesday’s Sip N’ Chat, to assisting with Neighbour Night and our Sustainable Food Program, ensuring neighbors have access to good food and a welcoming space. Their efforts continue to make a meaningful difference, and we were thrilled to celebrate them both.  

Who will be next? It could be someone you know!  

How to Nominate  

It’s simple to submit your nomination! Just fill out the online 2025 Community Service Award Nomination Form before the deadline of March 24th. Your submission will help us shine a light on those who’ve made a difference in Hillhurst Sunnyside.  

If you’re unable to complete the online form, don’t worry! You can still nominate someone by reaching out to Stephanie, to arrange for a paper copy of the nomination form to be picked up. Stephanie.c@hsca.ca or call 403-283-0554, ext 226.  

Eligibility Criteria  

Please review the eligibility criteria below for HSCA's Community Service Award (CSA): 

Eligible Nominees: 

- Nominees can be residents or non-residents, members or non-members, if they are engaged in community service or volunteerism and/or creating a positive impact in the Hillhurst Sunnyside community.  

- Nominees must be nominated by someone else and provide the nominator with consent to submit the nomination form.  

- Individuals or small groups of 2 or 3 people who volunteer together are eligible. Larger groups are not eligible. 

Ineligible Nominations: 

A nomination will be deemed ineligible if the nominee is:  

- A current or returning HSCA board member (retiring board members are eligible).  

- HSCA staff (staff can nominate but cannot be nominated).  

Don’t Miss Out!  

Remember, nominations close on March 24th, so take a moment to recognize someone who has made a meaningful contribution to our community. We look forward to receiving your nominations and celebrating the amazing work happening in our community!  

This #GivingTuesday YOU Made a Difference

This Giving Tuesday, our community came together to show incredible generosity and support. Thanks to your kindness, we raised $2,255 for the Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association’s (HSCA) Chair Yoga program!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all of our donors and those who shared and amplified our message. Your contributions help ensure this program can continue to enrich the lives of seniors in our community throughout 2025—at no cost to participants. Chair Yoga fosters connection, well-being, and joy, and your generosity makes it all possible.

If you would like to see the tremendous impact our Chair Yoga program has on the lives of seniors in our neighborhood (and beyond), watch our Chair Yoga YouTube video. Consider subscribing to our channel for more stories related to programming, events, and community connections.

Looking to Make an Impact Beyond Giving Tuesday?

There are many ways to stay involved and help us continue our mission:

💳 Purchase (or Gift!) an HSCA Membership:

Support local programs and enjoy discounts at 30+ businesses. Learn more at www.hsca.ca/membership. ership

📩 Sign Up for HSCA’s E-Newsletter:

Stay informed about events, inspiring stories, and ways to connect. Sign up here.

🎥 Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel:

Discover more about HSCA’s mission and see how we’re building a stronger, more connected community. Watch, like, and subscribe!

📱Follow Us on Social Media:

Join the conversation on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the loop and share your voice (Instagram and Facebook)

💚 Donate to HSCA’s General Campaign or a Specific Program:

Every dollar counts! Make a one-time or monthly donation to create lasting impact. Visit www.hsca.ca/donate

Thank you for being part of this amazing journey. Together, we’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbors and building a stronger, more connected community. 🌟

HSCA Staff Party! A Huge Thank You to Our Membership Partners for Their Generous Donations!

This month, the HSCA team came together for a truly special event to celebrate our incredible staff. It was an evening filled with laughter, fun games, and delicious food at The Sultan’s Tent in Kensington. Events like these remind us that just as community and connection are at the heart of our programming, they’re equally vital within our organization. 💚

The gathering brought together staff from across all departments, including our Childcare Team (Daycare and Out of School Care), Community Programs, Facilities, Administrative, and Leadership teams. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, celebrate, and recognize the hard work and dedication of everyone who makes HSCA such a vibrant and supportive community.

What made this festive gathering even more memorable was the generosity of some of our amazing Membership Partners:

🌟 @canary.goods

🌟 @goodtradeco

🌟 Pho Houz

🌟 @sunnycider_ca

🌟 @sunnyside.natural.market

These incredible businesses donated fantastic prizes and gifts, making the celebration truly unforgettable. 🎁 A huge THANK YOU to all of them for supporting our team and helping us recognize the hard work and dedication of HSCA staff.

🌟 Want to Enjoy Membership Perks? 🌟

When you hold an HSCA membership, you’re not just supporting local programs—you also gain access to exclusive discounts and offerings from over 30 Membership Partners! 🎉

Interested in becoming a member? Visit hsca.ca/membership to learn more and sign up today.

Thank you for being part of our vibrant, connected community. Here’s to a joyful holiday season and an incredible year ahead! ✨

New Year, New Vibes: 2025 at HSCA is About to Be (Even More) Amazing!

Hey Hillhurst Sunnyside fam! 🎉 Are you ready to crush 2025? Because we sure are. The Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) is kicking things off BIG this year with a lineup of exciting programs—and trust us, you won’t want to miss out.   

We’ve got something for everyone, and here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming your way:   

1. Youth Badminton Lessons with Grace Yuen 🏸   

Looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday afternoon? How about learning to crush it on the badminton court? Whether you’re a newbie or already smashing birdies like a pro, these lessons are for YOU.     

📅 When: Saturdays, starting January 11th, 2025   

⏰ Time: 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM   

📍 Where: HSCA   

Who: Youth ages 10-15   

Whether you're new to the sport or wanting to develop your skill, coach Grace Yuen will help you learn all the tips and tricks to level up your game while making friends, building teamwork, and (most importantly) having an absolute blast.     

2. Parents & Tots: Stay n' Play 

Parents, we see you. You deserve a fun, relaxed morning where you can let your little ones play while connecting with other caregivers. 

📅 When: Wednesdays, starting January 8th, 2025   

⏰ Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM   

📍 Where: HSCA’s North Social Hall   

Who: Ages 0-5 (with parental supervision) 

💲 Cost: $2 Drop in and FREE for HSCA Membership holders  

This drop-in program is your go-to for midweek playdates, complete with toys, space to roam, and plenty of opportunities to make new friends (for both kids and parents/caregivers).   

3. Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Richelle 

Ready to flow into 2025 with balance and calm? Join community member and instructor Richelle for a welcoming and rejuvenating yoga experience.   

📅 When: Fridays, starting January 10th, 2025   

⏰ Time: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM   

📍 Where: HSCA North Social Hall   

💲 Cost: $20/class   

This 60-minute Vinyasa Flow class is designed for all experience levels, blending breathwork, meditation, and flowing poses to help you unwind and recharge.     

4. Meditation and Journaling Workshop 📝   

Need a little me time in 2025? This monthly workshop is the perfect blend of mindfulness and reflection.   

📅 When: Saturdays, 11:30 AM - 12:45 PM   

🗓 Dates: February 15th, March 15th, April 5th, May 10th   

📍 Where: HSCA’s North Social Hall   

💲 Cost: $25/workshop (HSCA Members get 10% off!)   

👥 Who: Ages 14+ (All skill levels welcome)   

This 75-minute workshop, led by Richelle Peace, focuses on balancing the body’s energy centers (chakras) through meditation, breathwork, and journaling. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and full of clarity.   

What to Bring: 

- A yoga mat (optional)   

- A journal and pen (or use what we provide)   

- Comfortable athletic wear   

- Water bottle to stay hydrated   

  Spots are limited to 20 participants, so grab your spot before it fills up!   

Why Join These Programs?    

Let’s make 2025 about self-care, connection, and community. Whether you’re smashing birdies, chasing toddlers, flowing through poses, or diving deep into mindfulness, there’s something here for you.    

📌 Badminton: Registration is OPEN—secure your spot today!   

📌 Yoga: Sign up now to flow into your best self.   

📌 Parents & Tots: Stay n’ Play: Drop in with the little ones to connect. 

📌 Meditation & Journaling: Reserve your space before it fills up!   

HSCA is ready to make 2025 unforgettable. Let’s build connection, health, and happiness—together.   

For more details on these programs, visit the HSCA webstore.  

Let's Move Together: How YOU Can Support HSCA This GivingTuesday

The Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) is participating in #GivingTuesday. This year Giving Tuesday takes place on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. Giving Tuesday is the world’s largest generosity movement. It was created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that encourages people to do good (Giving Tuesday Canada, 2024).   

This Giving Tuesday, HSCA will focus our fundraising efforts on Chair Yoga. HSCA’s Chair Yoga program provides seniors with an opportunity to stay active while engaging in meaningful relationships at no cost to participants. It fosters a sense of belonging, ensuring senior participants can maintain their health, flexibility, and social well-being in a supportive environment. Check out the MANY ways you can help below: 

1. Give- Donate to HSCA [www.hsca.ca/donate].   

2. Share- Share our mission with your network to help spread the word.    

3. Engage- See the impact of Chair Yoga: Watch, like, share our Chair Yoga video and subscribe to our YouTube channel.  

4. Amplify- Like and/or share any of our GivingTuesday posts on HSCA’s Facebook and Instagram. 

Remember there’s many ways you can support! Any action helps HSCA strengthen community programs that reduce barriers and promote social inclusion for all. 

3 Ways to Think Sustainably & Locally This Holiday Season at HSCA

The holiday season is the perfect time to embrace joy, connection, and sustainability and we’ve got you covered! Check out these three ways to celebrate the season in meaningful, eco-friendly, and community-focused ways at HSCA!  

Here are three fun and festive ways to add some local love and green practices to your holiday celebrations:   

1. Community + Cheer + Local + Sustainable = A Very Local Holiday Market 

Kick off the holiday season at A Very Local Holiday Market!   

🗓 When: Wednesday, December 4th, 3-7 PM   

📍 Where: HSCA   

  Join us for some festive fun and local shopping. Enjoy kid-friendly activities like crafts, balloons, face painting, and live music while exploring an incredible array of local vendors. From thoughtful stocking stuffers to holiday party essentials, you’ll find everything you need to make the season special.   

This event is the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit, support local businesses, and find sustainable, unique gifts for everyone on your list!   

  2. Creative Holiday Cheer: Upcycle and Craft at HSCA’s Neighbour Night 

Get crafty and reduce waste with Neighbour Night: Upcycled Holiday Card Making!   

🗓 When: Thursday, December 5th, 5:30 PM   

📍 Where: HSCA   

✍️ Registration Required 

About: Please join us for a creative, crafty, and sustainable workshop!  Our community facilitators, Abir & Melisa, will be teaching us how to make homemade upcycled holiday cards. Materials and a meal are provided. If you have any old holiday cards that you would like to upcycle, please bring them along to repurpose!  

 Create beautiful, personalized holiday cards using recycled materials. This family-friendly event is a wonderful way to express your creativity, reduce waste, and connect with your community. Give your holiday greetings a unique, sustainable touch this year!      

3. Shopping Sustainably at the HSCA Flea Market: Browse, Save, and Find! 

Find the perfect sustainable gift at the HSCA Sunday Flea Market!   

🗓 When: Every Sunday, 3-7 PM   

🗓 The Special Holiday Flea Market is Sunday, December 22nd, 7 AM - 3 PM   

Looking for one-of-a-kind gifts? The Flea Market has something for everyone, from vintage vinyl records and antiques to handcrafted jewelry and art. This is a free event with LOTS of family-fun activities to get those holiday vibes going!   

Don’t miss the Holiday Flea Market on December 22nd, featuring festive cheer, amazing finds, a MAGIC SHOW and LOTS of other family-fun activities to get those holiday vibes going. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your holiday shopping sustainably while enjoying a day filled with fun and holiday spirit!   

Celebrate the Season Locally   

Choosing local and sustainable options for your holiday celebrations is a meaningful way to support your community, reduce your environmental footprint, and make the season even more special. Whether you’re enjoying a local market, crafting upcycled cards, or hunting for vintage treasures, every choice makes a difference.   

We hope to see you at these events as we celebrate a merry, bright, and truly local holiday season! 🎄   

Are you attending any of these local events? We want to hear about it!  Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.  

HSCA Spotlight Series- Meet Richelle: HSCA's Yoga instructor!

We’re thrilled to welcome Richelle to HSCA as she kicks off her Vinyasa Flow classes in January 2025! Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, Richelle’s inclusive Vinyasa Flow class combines breathwork, meditation, and flowing movements to help you feel both energized and at ease. With over a decade of experience on the mat, Richelle has completed her 200-hour teacher training at Yoga Santosha and a 30-hour certification in unified mindfulness coaching. And if she seems like a familiar face, you’ve probably seen her strolling around the neighborhood with her golden retriever, Tucker! Join us in welcoming Richelle to HSCA and get ready to flow with her in the new year! 

 Let’s get to know Richelle... in 5 questions or less 

Q: What is your favourite part about HSCA or the Hillhurst Sunnyside community?  

A: I love how family-friendly the HSCA is, with an on-site daycare, a weekly farmers market, and the lively Riley Park just across the street. 

Q: What inspires you? 

A: Hearing family and friends share their challenges with stress and body aches motivates me to show them how yoga can help. Seeing yoga's positive impact on others inspires me to share its benefits with everyone. 

Q. What does community mean to you? 

A. To me, community means having a welcoming space to come together and connect. Working from home makes me crave that shared energy with others who love this neighbourhood as much as I do. 

Q. What’s something that recently made you smile? 

A. Getting a free sample of delicious cheese while I waited for my sandwich at Peasant Cheese. If you know, you know.  

Q. Anything else you'd like to share? 

A. As much as yoga and mindfulness has been there for me, so has journaling. It's a way for me to process feelings and emotions (good and bad) and I actually kept every single one of my journals since I was a kid. Dating back to 2003. 

Kick off 2025 with a mindful, moving start! HSCA is thrilled to announce that starting Friday, January 10, we’ll be offering Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Richelle Peace. Drop-in fee is $20 and runs Fridays from 11:00am-12pm in HSCA’s North Social Hall. Visit hsca.ca/yoga to register and to learn more!   

Move Together: Strengthen Our Community by Supporting Chair Yoga this Giving Tuesday!

GivingTuesday takes place Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024

What is it?

Mark your calendars! Giving Tuesday is right around the corner on December 3, 2024. This global day of giving was established in 2012 with one goal: to encourage people to do good by giving back. This year, Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association (HSCA) is thrilled to join the movement by spotlighting a cause that’s close to our hearts—our Chair Yoga program for seniors.

Why Chair Yoga?

As we age, it’s essential to stay connected, physically active, and engaged in a community. HSCA’s Chair Yoga program is designed specifically for our senior members, promoting well-being in a way that’s both safe and fun! Chair Yoga offers gentle movement, relaxation, and a welcoming space for seniors to gather, connect, and build friendships. These sessions help participants maintain flexibility, health, while fostering a sense of belonging.

Help Us Reach Our $4,000 Fundraising Goal

On Giving Tuesday, we’re aiming to raise $4,000 to keep Chair Yoga accessible and impactful for all who benefit from it. Every donation helps cover program costs, providing seniors with a safe, supportive environment to maintain their physical and social well-being. Your contribution will make a real difference in our community!

Calls to Action

1. Move Together: Donate to HSCA’s Chair Yoga Program this Giving Tuesday on December 3, 2024. Visit hsca.ca/donate to see the different ways you can give.

2. Save the Date: Add HSCA’s Giving Tuesday campaign to your Google Calendar today! [Save the Date: HSCA’s GivingTuesday]

3. Spread the Word: Consider sharing HSCA’s Giving Tuesday campaign with your circle to drive donations leading up to December 3rd. Every share counts!

Let’s join together this Giving Tuesday to reach our goal and continue the positive impact of Chair Yoga—bringing connection, wellness, and joy to our seniors, one gentle stretch at a time.

New Year, New You: Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Richelle at HSCA

Kick off 2025 with a mindful, moving start! HSCA is thrilled to announce that starting Friday, January 10, we’ll be offering Vinyasa Flow Yoga with Richelle Peace. Thank you to everyone who took the time to fill out our recreation program survey—we heard you and listened! Based on your feedback, we’re bringing you this exciting new class.

Class Details:

- When: Fridays, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

- Where: North Social Hall, HSCA

- Instructor: Richelle Peace

-Registration: Opens Monday, November 4th, 2025. Visit: HSCA Yoga | Activities | Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association Store

What to Expect:

Each 60-minute class is designed to meet you wherever you are in your yoga journey. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned yogi, Richelle’s inclusive Vinyasa Flow class combines breathwork, meditation, and flowing movements to help you feel both energized and at ease.

This Vinyasa Flow class is more than just an activity—it’s an experience that brings community members together, fostering a shared sense of wellness. With regular practice, you’ll feel greater flexibility, reduced stress, and a weekly boost to your overall mood.

What to Bring:

All you’ll need is a yoga mat (plus any blocks or props you might want for added support). Wear something comfy, and come ready to unwind, breathe deeply, and move mindfully. Leave the class feeling refreshed, centred, and ready to take on whatever comes your way!

So mark your calendar, bring your mat, and come as you are! Everyone is welcome, and we can’t wait to see you on the mat every Friday beginning January 10, 2025!

November is Fall Prevention Month

As the colder months approach, we often think of snow-packed and icy sidewalks as the primary cause of falls. But falls can happen anywhere, and for some, the consequences can be far more serious than just a bruised ego or body. For some individuals, even a small fall can lead to significant and long-lasting effects. 

Most falls occur in or around the home, but the good news is that there are plenty of steps we can take to reduce the risk. It’s more than just clearing tripping hazards or securing handrails. Here are a few essential tips to help prevent falls:  

• Home Safety: Secure handrails, ensure hallways and stairs are well-lit, and remove any obstacles that could cause someone to trip, especially in high-traffic areas. 

• Build Strength & Balance: Exercises that focus on improving balance and building muscle strength can go a long way in fall prevention. 

• Footwear Matters: Wearing shoes with proper support can make a huge difference in stability. 

• Assistive Devices: For those who need them, canes, walkers, or even hearing aids and proper glasses can provide additional support. 

  This November, explore the many resources available for Falls Prevention Month. With a bit of awareness and simple adjustments, we can help make homes and public spaces safer for everyone, especially those most at risk. Even small changes can help prevent a fall and the potentially serious consequences that come with it. Let’s work together to keep our community safe, healthy, and strong! 

Visit https://findingbalancealberta.ca/ to learn more. 

It Takes a Community to Grow a Garden: HSCA’s Shared Garden Season Wrap-Up

As the garden beds rest and the last of the harvest is gathered, we want to thank the amazing volunteers for their commitment and efforts in the HSCA Shared Garden and reflect on another incredible season. From planting to harvesting, our volunteers have made all the difference, coming together to sow not just seeds, but the spirit of collaboration and care. 

This season, your efforts helped us contribute to something greater. With the food we’ve grown, we were able to support the HSCA’s Sustainable Food Program and Neighbor Night Program, bringing fresh, local produce to our community. Every bit of time, every weed pulled, and every vegetable harvested, connection made, has made an important impact.  

A Season in Review 

• At the beginning of the season, we picked up compost & mulch from the city. The compost helped to provide nutrients to the soil and the mulch which helped with water retention & keeping the weeds to a minimum.  

• This year we had at least 10 consistent volunteers working in the gardens including one gal and her young son.  

• Thanks to the hard work of our team, we harvested a wonderful variety of vegetables and herbs, including potatoes, zucchini, spinach, Swiss chard, beans, onions, tomatoes, peas, beets, carrots, and even pumpkins. These fresh, vibrant foods went on to nourish many! 

• Some volunteers were so inspired by their experience that they started their own plants at home.  

 We are grateful to each volunteer that has contributed to this season’s success. Together, we have cultivated more than vegetables; we’ve fostered connections, shared knowledge, and created a space for growth and connection. We look forward to more seasons of growth, collaboration, and community! 

We Want to Hear from You: Share Your Feedback in Our HSCA Recreational Survey!

Do you have ideas on how we can improve recreational offerings in our community? We want to hear from you! Fill out our brief online survey today and you could win:

• a one-year HSCA Membership

• a $25 gift card to Good Trade Coffee.  

How to Participate 

Filling out the survey takes just a few minutes, and every response helps. Click the link below to get started: 

👉 https://forms.office.com/r/s5xUnxKb8j  

  The survey will be open until Tuesday, October 15th, so don’t miss your chance to contribute! 

What’s in It for You? 

Our neighborhood thrives when we all come together. With your input, we can determine which recreational programs reflect our community’s diverse interests.  So, don’t wait—share your thoughts with us today, and let’s work toward an even better, more active and connected community. 

Plus, everyone who completes the survey has the option to be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a one-year HSCA Membership and a $25 gift card to Good Trade Coffee. 

Thank you for being a part of HSCA’s future! 

Halloween at the HSCA Flea Market: A Spooktacular Event!

Sunday, October 27th, 7am-3pm.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, October 27th, 2024, because Halloween is coming to the HSCA Flea Market! This year, we’re pulling out all the stops with a day filled with family fun, costumes, magic, and community spirit. Whether you're a vendor or a customer, there's something for everyone. Here's what to expect: 

Costume Contest and Parade 

Put on your spookiest, silliest, or most creative costume and join us for a costume contest like no other! Both vendors and customers are welcome to participate. To enter, make sure you're registered before noon—no late entries will be accepted. The contest kicks off with a parade through the building at 12:30pm, where all the fabulous costumes will be on display for votes from our marketgoers.  

Most Halloween-Themed Table 

Vendors, this one’s for you! Get your booth decked out in all things spooky and enter the **Most Halloween-Themed Table Contest. This is your chance to let your creativity shine with eerie decorations, spooky treats, or themed products. Voting is open to both vendors and customers and will close at 2:00pm. Make sure to register to enter, and may the best (and/or spookiest) table win!  

Magic Show 

Get ready for some mystical fun with our magic show at 1:30pm by magician Spencer Mah! This family-friendly performance will dazzle kids and adults alike with illusions, tricks, and plenty of Halloween surprises. It’s the perfect way to take a break from shopping and soak in the spooky season.  

Whether you're in it for the contests, the magic, or just a fun-filled day at the market, Halloween at the HSCA Flea Market promises to be a fantastic event for all ages. Come in costume, vote for your favourite Halloween table, and enjoy the magic and community spirit that makes our market so special. 

See you there on October 27th for a hauntingly good time! 🎃 

The HSCA Flea Market runs EVERY Sunday, year-round from 7am-3pm and admission is FREE. Bring the family to browse, connect, or grab some lunch or breakfast at the concession (Queen Latina’s is serving up delicious food every Sunday). The Flea Market has over 100 vendors, featuring crafts, furniture, antiques, books, household items, and more!

Membership Partner Spotlight: Introducing Paper Places

HSCA is thrilled to announce our newest Membership Partner: Paper Places! You may have already seen her beautiful watercolours on Instagram or around the community. Check out Alice’s blog post below to dive deeper into Paper Places, including an introduction to Alice—the talented artist behind it all—and her thoughtful approach to capturing the character and creativity that flows through Sunnyside.  Plus see the special offers available to HSCA Membership holders!

To learn more about HSCA Membership (including perks and offerings) visit our Membership Partner page. 

Introducing Paper Places 

Hi! I’m Alice, the artist behind Paper Places. I create watercolour paintings of houses and storefronts, many of which are custom house portraits. After moving to Sunnyside, I immediately fell in love with this beautiful neighbourhood. Each house has its own character and unique style, reflecting the creativity of its residents in such an inspiring way. This love for Sunnyside inspired me to start Paper Places, and I wanted it to be the focus of my first series. 

About the Sunnyside series 

For 56 days, I painted miniature versions of 56 Sunnyside houses. Each day, I would paint a different one, film the process, and share it on Instagram. After I got a lot of positive feedback, I have decided to turn my series into a limited edition poster. They are printed in Calgary by Little Rock Printing. You can find the posters on my website or at our lovely local tea shop, Oolong Tea Shop Kensington. 

Creativity around every corner 

The best part of the Hillhurst Sunnyside community is its residents and their inspiring creativity. Every time I take a walk through the neighbourhood, I discover new murals, the most adorable lawn decorations, fairy houses on trees, and so much more. It’s these thoughtful -sometimes very subtle- art installations that turn each walk into an adventure. On that note, I would like to give a special mention to the bike on a house, the aliens and gargoyles tree, and of course, the upcycled sculpture on the car. 

I want to paint your houses 

The reason why I became an HSCA membership partner is simple: I want to paint your houses! I know that you love your houses and take pride in them, so what better way to cherish them than with a custom house portrait! No house is too simple: my role as an artist is to show you that beauty is everywhere, and that charm might come from subtle details such as the shadow of a tree on a facade or a logo on a storefront. Your story is worth every brushstroke. 

To celebrate our community, I would like to offer HSCA members:  

• 25% of the limited edition Sunnyside poster 

Please send a picture of your valid HSCA Membership card to alicepaperplaces@gmail.com to get a discount code to use on paperplaces.ca 

• 15% of 9"x12" custom house portraits 

Please send a picture of your valid HSCA Membership card to alicepaperplaces@gmail.com before sending a house portrait request. 

City of Calgary in Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions- Effective Aug 26th

An important update from the City of Calgary

Important reminder!
Starting August 26th, 2024, the City of Calgary will be in Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions.

Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions prohibits all outdoor water use of City of Calgary potable water.

This means that the following is not allowed at any time:

- Using outdoor sprinklers
- Using hoses with spray nozzles
- Hand watering, unless it is with non-potable water or rainwater
- Watering new or established lawns, gardens, flowers, trees, shrubs, sod or grass seed with City water
- Washing outdoor cars, windows, exterior building surfaces, sidewalks, driveways or walkways
- Filling of outdoor pools, hot tubs or wading pools with City water
- Filling of fountains and other decorative features
- Water use for construction purposes including grading, compactions and dust control
- Pesticide or fertilizer application that requires the use of City water

For more info visit https://newsroom.calgary.ca/psa-stage-4-outdoor-water-restrictions-in-effect-august-26

Changes to HSCA's Sustainable Food Program (SFP)

Effective September 9, 2024, HSCA will be implementing some important changes to the Sustainable Food Program. The free food portion of the program will be ending, and the focus will shift to be on low-cost produce. After extensive research, HSCA has chosen to strategically invest our resources into community connections, and low-cost food partnerships.  

This decision has not been made lightly. We have spent a great deal of time looking at all options, and HSCA believes we can best serve the community through strengthening our relationship with Fresh Routes and using our resources to build connections and relationships through community programs. We recognize that this change will be significant, and we are committed to working with you as we take this step toward providing a deeper impact within our areas of strength as an organization.  

Monday August 26th will be the last day that free food will be offered as part of the program. There will be no changes to HSCA's partnership with Fresh Routes. Fresh Routes will be available every Monday (except statutory holidays) from 4pm-6pm to offer produce. HSCA will continue to provide a discount of 25% for anyone living in Hillhurst or Sunnyside who is interested in that support.  

Please visit our Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) page for more information about these changes. HSCA also has a list of Calgary Food Resources available. Finally, HSCA has an extensive online resource tool (HSCA’s Community Resource Guide) that showcases the organizations that have direct mandates for offering free food, that are better resourced to serve this need, and that can provide greater impact in this area. These organizations are listed on HSCA's website: www.hsca.ca/resources-1. 

The next steps will include using our capacity to seek stable funding for the low-cost grocery discount and building connections and relationships for participants through community programs. 

We, the team at HSCA, feel confident that this change in direction will increase our impact by focusing our programs and services to align with our strengths and our mission. We are grateful that you are part of this community and hope to continue serving you.  

With gratitude and support, 

The HSCA Team