A new initiative headed up by Herefordshire organisation ‘Growing Local is Going Local’ has been given a £2,100 donation from Cargill’s Meat Business in Hereford. Working in conjunction with West Mercia Women’s Aid (WMWA), the ‘Family Plot to Plate’ project is designed to help empower  women affected by domestic violence and abuse by encouraging  them  to grow and cook their own fruit and vegetables. 

The women and their children are taught about the importance of proper nutrition in a family learning environment, while also re-building their confidence  by gaining an understanding of how to grow and prepare their own food in an outdoor environment. Each session ends with the women cooking and sharing lunch together using fresh produce from the garden and other local seasonal produce.

Pat Gordon, Director and Gardening Tutor at Growing Local said: ”For many survivors of domestic abuse it is important to be given opportunities to improve their life skills while enhancing  the relationship with their children. The Family Plot to Plate scheme will help to build the women’s confidence  by utilising a safe outdoor space in Hereford . The donation from Cargill will be used to run two full, ten week courses for the women supporting their recovery in a holistic way.”

Jane Melton, charities co-ordinator at Cargill’s Meat Businesses, added: “Growing your own food is one of the most purposeful things you can do, nourishing your family and maintaining your health. The benefits  the women and children will gain from the project are  outstanding, equipping them with knowledge and skills that will stand them in good stead. We’re delighted to have been able to support Growing Local’s work and look forward to some wonderful results.”