Ep 33 - Redefining "a good neighbourhood" in Queenston, St. Catharines

What makes a good neighbourhood?

Low crime rates? Strong property values? Walkability and good schools?

In Episode 33 of Undercurrents, host Ken Ogasawara travels to the Queenston neighbourhood in St. Catharines, Ontario—a community many outsiders label “the worst neighbourhood in the city.” But is that the whole story?

Ken spends the day with Tim Shields, MCC Community Mobilizer and longtime Queenston resident, exploring how relationships, dignity, and grassroots peacebuilding are reshaping what it means to be a good neighbour.

This episode explores:

Community development in marginalized neighbourhoods
Faith-based peacebuilding and the work of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC)
Homelessness, addiction, and safe consumption sites
Food insecurity and the reality of living in a food desert
Affordable grocery store initiatives and local partnerships
What it really means to “walk alongside” your neighbours

You’ll hear from Queenston residents, local church leaders, and MCC staff about how presence, partnership, and shared meals can transform both people and systems.

Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube or wherever you listen to podcasts!

Download transcription here.

Download discussion guide here.

Credits:

Undercurrents is sponsored in part by ⁠Kindred Credit Union⁠.

Production assistance from Christen Kong

Theme music by Brian MacMillan

Artwork by Jesse Bergen

Executive produced by Sandra Reimer

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