As a not for profit group, all our funds are raised through donations and fundraising. We rely on donations to pay for things such as:
- Workshops
- Equipment for the garden
- Seeds, fruit trees and compost
- Repairs
- Annual insurance for the garden and our Oak Shelter
- Website fees and publicity
- Volunteer recruitment
After six years of hard work, the garden now consists of raised vegetable beds, fruit trees, a circular social area with log seating, a wildlife pond, access path, wooden benches, a shed, a greenhouse, and our wonderful hand-built green oak shelter.
The garden was set up by members of Transition Larkhall’s Food Group (see here for info on the Transition Network) and continues to be run by them on a voluntary basis. By sharing skills and knowledge, and encouraging volunteers and visitors to grow their own fruit and vegetables, Alice Park Community Garden gives local people the tools for self-reliance as well as being a social hub where local community members can gather.
As well as growing vegetables and fruit, the Community Garden raises funds to provide workshops for people within the local community. We have spent several years building links with St Saviour’s Infant School, teaching children and their families how to grow and cook their own food. We have run free workshops aimed at providing training and inspiration for those interested in growing their own food, encouraging wildlife and becoming more self-sufficient and self-reliant. We are part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme hosting young people from the ages of 14-25 years at the garden to volunteer and contribute to a community service and develop skills in order to achieve their Bronze, Silver and Gold awards.
