Under the passionate leadership of Lucy C, the Service and Sustainability Prefect, HTS was thrilled to host the second annual student-led HTS Farmers Market. This exciting event, which took place in the HTS courtyard, was generously supported by Ballantry Homes, whose contribution helped make the day an overwhelming success. The market provided an opportunity for students, staff, and the wider HTS community to come together and celebrate sustainable living, local businesses, and environmental responsibility, all while supporting a meaningful cause.
With over 20 diverse and talented vendors participating, the event was brimming with energy and excitement. Each booth offered a unique experience, showcasing a wide variety of products and services—from locally sourced produce to handmade crafts. The enthusiasm of the vendors and visitors alike created a lively atmosphere, reinforcing the strong sense of community that defines HTS. The commitment to sustainability was at the heart of the market, with many of the vendors emphasizing eco-friendly practices and products.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the HTS student-led booths, which not only demonstrated creativity and entrepreneurial spirit but also aligned with the school’s values of environmental stewardship. Some of the standout booths included the Battery Drive & Small Electronics Recycling, where community members were encouraged to bring in old batteries and electronics for responsible disposal; the Book Exchange, promoting the reuse of books and fostering a love for reading; and the popular Photo Booth, where attendees could capture fun moments while supporting the cause. The Market Raffle added an element of excitement, with fantastic prizes donated by local businesses, while the HTS Honey booth showcased honey produced from the school’s own beehives, highlighting HTS’s ongoing commitment to urban beekeeping and biodiversity. The Integrated Arts Council also had a strong presence, offering creative and interactive activities that added an artistic flair to the market.
A true testament to the spirit of giving, all proceeds garnered from the HTS booths were generously donated to Friends of the Rouge Watershed, an environmental organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Rouge River watershed. This partnership reflects HTS’s dedication to supporting meaningful environmental causes and fostering a sense of responsibility among students toward the natural world.
Thanks to the hard work and vision of Lucy C and her team, the HTS Farmers Market has grown into a much-anticipated annual event, providing not only a platform for local vendors and artisans but also a way for the HTS community to engage in important environmental and social initiatives. The event has become a symbol of HTS’s commitment to sustainability, service, and student leadership, with each year building upon the success of the last. We look forward to seeing the HTS Farmers Market continue to flourish in the years to come, and we are incredibly proud of the students who made this year’s event such a triumph. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, contributed, and supported the event—together, we are making a positive impact on both our community and the environment!