https://www.justwaves.org/cellular-roots.html

They say the best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The next best time is right now.

For nearly a decade, this project has been taking shape. Right now, I’m moving it into the world — with the goal of creating something simple that could help, and potentially save, lives.

If I asked a room full of people whether someone they love has struggled with mental health, it’s hard to imagine a single hand staying down. From where I stand, things feel like they’re getting harder — financially, emotionally, socially. I’ve seen it in my own life, in my family, and in my community.

I have loved ones who keep crisis numbers on the fridge for when things reach a breaking point. I have friends navigating life between shelters and the street. My wife works on the front lines supporting vulnerable women every day, and through her, I’ve seen how stretched and under-resourced these systems can be.

In my own time facilitating drop-in art workshops at a local shelter, I met people whose stories were as powerful as they were difficult — people navigating extreme hardship, but also moments of generosity, humour, and resilience that stay with you.

One thing became clear: the systems meant to help are often fragmented, underfunded, and difficult to access in the moments they’re needed most.

This project is a response to that gap.

Project Overview

​Each Cellular Roots unit is designed as a durable public sculpture integrating:

• A secured communication device

• Pre-programmed support resources and contacts

• Local service information

• Potential solar-powered functionality

• Weather-resistant construction

The goal is to create infrastructure that is both functional and meaningful

How It Works

​Cellular Roots installations are intended to provide access to:

By reducing barriers between people and support systems, the project aims to make help more visible and accessible

Inspiration

​Cellular Roots draws inspiration from systems that quietly sustain life: cellular networks, neural pathways, root systems, and social networks.

These structures share a common purpose — connection. They carry information, provide support, and create resilience through relationships.

Cellular Roots translates these invisible systems into a public, physical form

Pilot Initiative

​Initial development is focused on producing two installations in the Niagara region, with long-term goals for broader expansion through community and institutional partnerships.

Every dollar raised goes directly toward bringing the first two Cellular Roots units into public space. These pilot installations will provide free access to crisis lines, shelters, outreach services, and community resources through a durable public sculpture designed to support people when they need help most.

$25 — Helps connect someone to support.

$100 — Supports fabrication materials.

$500 — Funds a major structural component.

$1,000 — Sponsors part of a Cellular Roots unit.

$7,500 — Funds one complete installation.

$15,000 — Launches the entire two-unit pilot project.

How the $15,000 Will Be Used

Fabrication of Two Cellular Roots Units

$5,000

Root and branch sculpture materials

Protective housing

Structural components

Finishing and weatherproofing

Communication Systems

$2,000

Smartphones

Mounting systems

Charging equipment

Connectivity setup and testing

Installation & Site Preparation

$3,000

Custom stands

Concrete footings and hardware

Transportation

Installation labour

Safety, Durability & Maintenance

$2,000

Anti-vandalism measures

Weather protection

Repairs and maintenance reserve

Replacement components

Documentation & Community Outreach

$1,500

Photography and video

Educational materials

Community engagement

Promotion of the pilot project

Permits, Administration & Contingency

$1,500

Permit fees

Insurance requirements

Unexpected project costs

With LakeSide Recovery and McGrath Custom Millworks already on board, we just need to continue our fundraising journey and begin producing our prototypes to make this a reality!