Green Roof Project

Shalom Manor Rooftop Greening Project

In 2007, the Board of Directors made the environmentally responsible decision to green the roof of the new building.  And in August of 2007, part of the roof was planted with sedums, grasses and herbs.  The remaining 3,000 square meters will be greened as necessary funds become available.  Since greening a roof is expensive the estimated cost for the second phase of the project is $500,000.  The Board is hoping to obtain the second phase funds through grants and fundraising.

 The decision to green the roof has many positive benefits for the institution and for the environment:

• It will save energy, as the heating and cooling costs are reduced because the building is insulated by the green roof. 
• Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, are reduced which cleans the environment.
• Because the roof is not exposed to the elements, estimates are that it will double the life of the roof.
• Plants have a therapeutic effect on the residents of Shalom Manor and Shalom Gardens Apartments.
• They attract birds and butterflies and enhance our bio-diversity.
• Plants also cut down on urban heat islands that form over asphalt roofs.
• Storm water runoff into the town sewers of Grimsby will be reduced because a significant amount of rainwater is absorbed by the green roof.

What Others Say?

The Hamilton Spectator: "Shalom Manor has decided to transform its bland grey asphalt roof into a lush year-round scenic piece of nature...residents at Shalom Manor are receptive to the project, despite its high cost..."  "We're doing it for our parents.""  August 20, 2007

Christian Courier: "The Rooftop Greening Project is another way in which Shalom Manor is using forward thinking to raise the level of comfort and beauty for its residents...while contributing positively to environmental and financial concerns." August 27, 2007

The Beacon: "Shalom Manor roof is part of a growing trend... (a green roof is) considered far more environmentally responsible." Issue 16, Fall 2007.

Dr. Henry Brouwer, Professor of Chemistry and Environmental Science: "A rooftop garden project for Shalom Manor has numerous benefits, not only to the institution itself, but also to the broader community."

Professor Jennifer Chiang, Director of the Whaly Teaching Garden and Lecturer in Ecology: "From an ecological/environmental standpoint the benefits of such a project are extraordinary - both immediate and long term.  I offer my congratulations to Shalom Manor and its Board of Directors for this exemplary incentive."

Shalom Manor Resident: "It's good for the environment, so it's important."

Shalom Gardens Apartments Resident: "It makes the place a lot nicer."

Donations for the Rooftop Greening Project may be sent to:

Shalom Manor and Gardens

Rooftop Greening Project

12 Bartlett Avenue

Grimsby, ON  L3M 4N5

Official receipts for income tax purposes will be issued at year-end for amounts of $10.00 and greater.