A new source of funding for Irish community gardening groups is now asking for grant applications so if you're involved in an allotment or community garden anywhere in Ireland it might just be worth taking a look to see if you can get some financial help with that dream project you've been working on.
The GIY Get Ireland Growing Fund is open to community groups, schools, allotments and community gardens – in fact anyone who wants to develop or enhance a spot for growing food locally. Last year 72 food projects across the country enjoyed grants of between €500 and €5000 to fund all sorts of projects, from an intercultural community garden in Ballyhaunis to a garden in Southill in Limerick seeking to bridge the generation gap. Another garden in Wicklow is looked after by residents of over 100 houses with no garden at all of their own; and in Pearse College, Dublin, an allotment project is including people with disabilities among its gardeners.
Whatever your project, we'll be here to help you plan and plant it so do pop by and ask our advice. When you're primed and ready to apply for your grant, visit the GYI International website (www.giyinternational.org). Good luck!
