KELSEY and adrian campbell chose small town peace and quiet over big city amenities to raise their three children

Tell us about your family.

“I’m Kelsey, a kindergarten teacher, and my husband is Adrian, who works in manufacturing as a production supervisor. We chose Palmerston as a home base because it was the closest town to where Kelsey grew up. We have 3 young children, aged 4, 2 and 3 months!”

Where did you move from and why did you decide to Move to Minto?

“Although Minto was a very familiar place for Kelsey, Adrian was born and raised in Jamaica. Choosing to live in a small town rather than big city centre was important to Adrian. Not only does he enjoy being able to know people in the community by name, he likes that the town is quieter, with more open/green space, yet with all the amenities you need.”

What are some of your favourite ways to spend time in Minto?

“We love being outdoors! Lions Heritage Park in Palmerston is a family favourite - it has a pool, splash pad, park, and awesome trails. Our kids especially love the waterfall fountain and river to explore, and the pedestrian bridge that spans the old railway tracks!

We enjoy many different events put on throughout the year. It seems there are always a variety of choices in any season, not only in our town but the two other towns in Minto as well. Family favourites include Light Up the Park, kiddie kickers soccer, and the parades.”

“We really feel Minto is an inclusive, progressive community that is working hard and proactively to become more diverse. We are really seeing a shift.”

Do you have a favourite local business or place to shop?

“Teenie Tiny Tots Children's Shoppe in Palmerston is a great place for both new and used baby and kid items. Being able to get cash for our baby items/clothes while supporting a local business is awesome!

We also love us some chicken wings, and the Wing House restaurant in Palmerston.

Adrian's favourite place to snag a deal is Gray's Auction - Minto’s very own version of Costco!”

What has surprised you about living here?

“How welcoming the community has been to our family, and Adrian especially as he was a newcomer to Canada. From my perspective, there is so much going on for families. There are lots of ways to get involved in the community or just enjoy an event.”

“I was initially worried my children wouldn't feel completely comfortable or that there wouldn’t be enough diversity in their classrooms. We really feel Minto is an inclusive, progressive community that is working hard and proactively to become more diverse. We are really seeing a shift.”

What would you tell someone who was interested in moving to Minto?

“Minto really does have a small town feel with most of the amenities you need at your door step. It is very accessible to city centres, and yet offers that feeling of smaller town, community-based living. Compared to other surrounding communities, we really do feel Minto is leading the way in transforming itself to be a home base for many, providing community services, events/activities, recreation and local businesses that compare to ‘big city’ life.”