Leanne—Owner & Creator

I started with a vision, and honestly if you had told me five years ago that I was going to plant 3400 lavender plants by hand, buy 6 beehives (which I am allergic to), plant a field of wildflowers, sunflowers, hazelnuts, fill the pond with fish, build a chicken coop, and start a home for rescued animals… I wouldn’t have believed you! But I am loving every minute!

I started as a single Mom of four beautiful, amazing children, worked full time in the corporate world in downtown Toronto by day, and lived in Mount Albert as a free spirited country girl by evenings and weekends.

I have since found my husband in the lavender fields, and grown my family to 7. My goal is to live to my fullest potential while showing the world my gratitude for all that life gives!

When I bought this property I knew it was meant for great things. The land is only a quaint 8 ½ acres, but it is spectacular! From the fields to the forest, it shares a big beautiful pond and a house that was originally built in 1856. It was like a diamond in the rough, but I am a visionary and I am learning as I go! 

My land continually gives in so many ways. This is why it’s called ‘The Giving Place’. The earth gives us everything in its most natural form, so I want to share it with you. The Giving Place is a place to escape the hustle and bustle of our busy days, to take a moment and breathe; to enjoy our fields and smell the lavender!

Our Journey is full of excitement at the The Giving Place and we still have so much to do!

- Leanne

Andrew

Meet Andrew – The Heart and Hands of The Giving Place

Originally from Scotland, Andrew set his roots in Mt. Albert as a child, where his deep appreciation for hard work and farming was nurtured by his grandfather. Inspired by those early lessons, he developed a passion for working with his hands, leading him to a career in fine carpentry.

In 2020, Andrew’s path led him to The Giving Place, where he not only found a purpose in its mission but also a love for Leanne. By 2023, he became an inseparable part of both the family and the farm, pouring his time, energy, and skill into building and restoring spaces that bring people together. From the She Shed to the Angel Building, Andrew has transformed salvaged and recycled materials into meaningful structures that hold stories of renewal and generosity.

As the Executive Director of The Giving Garden Haven, Andrew’s leadership ensures that five local food pantries receive fresh, homegrown produce every week. Whether he’s fixing, building, or dreaming up the next project, his hands are always at work—making The Giving Place stronger, more beautiful, and ever more giving.

Our Kids

At the very core of The Giving Place are our children—Jason, Jacob, Tovi Anne, Scott, and Jasper. They are not just a part of our family; they are the soul of this land. From the very beginning, they worked alongside us, planting the first lavender fields, clearing the land, and building fences—laying the foundation for what The Giving Place has become today. Their laughter fills the fields, their hands help nurture the gardens, and their hearts inspire us to build a world that is safe, loving, and spiritually connected.

Because of them, The Giving Place isn’t just a farm—it’s our home. When we open our doors to guests, customers, and friends, we do so with open hearts, inviting you to experience the beauty of this land as we do. We ask that you treat it with care, just as we do, knowing that every space is filled with love, purpose, and the hard work of our family. Your respect helps us continue to share this special place with all who come seeking connection, peace, and a little bit of magic.

Sandy

Sandy brings years of experience to the Giving Garden. Head Gardener at Whitevale Golf Club for 9 years while also developing designs for the surrounding community. After much advocacy for the inclusion of a native plant garden at Whitevale, she created a flourishing oasis to help support local wildlife. Taking that passion, she is building a similar area for the Giving Garden. With the help of her friends Michelle DeVries and Marie Gowans by her side, the new garden is taking shape.

Karen

Karen is a retired elementary teacher who started volunteering at The Giving Place Lavender Farm in  2018 and helped build the first garden beds at The Giving Garden soon after. Having had a vegetable garden for over 10 years herself, and the desire to support those with food insecurity, she became more involved. Since 2021, she has been one of the co-managers of the Giving Garden. Being part of the growth of a local initiative that supports the community’s food pantries with fresh produce on a weekly and monthly basis is an incredible source of pride for her.

Jenna

My name is Jenna and I have been coming to this beautiful space since 2020. My kids and I would come and help in the lavender fields, with the animals and the many events that have been held here. I love hot yoga, soccer and travel. I work in the corporate world and fell in love with the calmness that I felt when I was here. There is no better feeling than when you can fully embrace the nature that surrounds you.

Marie & Ian

Marie, a retired elementary teacher, brings her lifelong love of gardening and boundless energy to the farm. Marie has been instrumental in developing some of our features like the Native Garden and Labyrinth garden and is always willing to help. She and her husband Ian often act as greeters when you arrive at the farm.

Jessica

Jessica is a photographer/artist/musician with a deep love of animals, the outdoors, and a passion for anything creative. She is our resident webmaster, and also assists with the daily tasks and operations of the farm.

Marilyn

My name is Marilyn and I have volunteered here for 4 years.  I am a retired Air Canada agent and teacher of children with special needs.  Very peaceful and stress free on this beautiful farm.  Love it!

Luke

My name is Luke and I have been volunteering at the Lavender farm since 2020 and worked at the farm in the summer. I am graduating highschool and am starting university in the fall. I enjoy playing ultimate frisbee and baseball.