Welcome to DESTA's quarterly newsletter! This newsletter is part of our commitment to staying connected. Every quarter, you’ll receive updates, stories, and opportunities that highlight the impact we’re building together. See what’s happening at DESTA and how you can be part of what’s next!

We’re turning 20! To kick off our anniversary celebrations, join us for Bargains & BBQ, our community sale in Little Burgundy!

As the church prepares to sell the building, we’re taking a moment to gather and celebrate the space that has held so much of our work and community. While we’re saying goodbye to this location, DESTA is not going anywhere, we’ve secured a new home and are excited for what’s ahead. This event is a chance to come together, reconnect, and build momentum as we step into our next chapter and 20th anniversary.

All items are priced between $1 and $25 including great deals on furniture, supplies, décor, and more.

Grab a bite fresh off the grill, enjoy the music, and support a great cause. All proceeds will help us to continue our work in the community!

Join us on May 2, 2026 from 12-6PM at Little Burgundy on 1950 Rue Saint-Antoine O, Montréal, QC H3J 1A5.

Each spring, GardenShare supports Black and Indigenous families across Greater Montreal in growing healthy, nutritious food at home. Since 2021, we have installed 70+ gardens from Laval to Kahnawake, and this year we are excited to welcome new gardeners and introduce a special program for elders.

GardenShare is free for Black and Indigenous households experiencing food insecurity, with any amount of growing space. All you need is a commitment to care for your garden and share surplus harvests.

What you will receive: Seedlings and seeds, soil, planter bags, a gardening toolkit, a grower’s guide, and ongoing mentorship—everything you need to get growing.

If you're ready to grow your green thumb this season, check your eligibility and submit your application today!

The Horticulture Academy is a hands-on, community-based program that introduces participants to urban gardening, horticulture, and sustainable food systems. Delivered in partnership with Hamidou Horticulture and DESTA, the program combines in-person workshops with online learning and at-home activities. Participants will gain practical experience, connect with community, and receive a $1,000 stipend and certificate upon completion.  

We’re looking for volunteers who are eager to share their time, skills, and energy to support our mission. No matter how much time you can offer, your help can make a meaningful impact on our community. Opportunities are available in event support, community outreach, administrative assistance, fundraising and partnerships, marketing and social media, photography and videography, and workshop facilitation.

DESTA is celebrating the landmark decision at the United Nations, where a March 25, 2026 resolution declared the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialized chattel enslavement among the gravest crimes against humanity. For DESTA, this global recognition reinforces the importance of justice‑centered programming, community empowerment, and advocacy for systemic change.

Our next DESTA Linkup Community Mixer is on June 11, 2026 at 5:30pm. Come celebrate our 20th anniversary with us and get an exclusive look at our brand‑new workspace at Cova Square Victoria, 413 Rue Saint-Jacques suite 700.

Whether you’re a community partner, past or current participant, an artist or creative, an organization, a supporter or simply curious about who we are and what we do, this mixer will be a chance to meet the people behind the programs, share ideas, and spark collaborations. Stay tuned for more info!

We collaborate with organizations, businesses, and community partners to expand our reach and deepen our work. Whether through program collaboration, sponsorship, or shared initiatives, partnering with DESTA is an opportunity to create meaningful, lasting change. 

Your monthly donations provides the steady foundation we need to deliver consistent, culturally grounded programs, invest in community-led initiatives, and respond to evolving needs with care and intention. 

In our next newsletter, we'll introduce the team behind DESTA, provide an overview of our 2026 strategic priorities, and present our impact in numbers.