The Scottish Government has announced the eight community growing projects across Scotland that will receive funding through the CSGN ‘Growing Food Together’ Fund 2023/24.
The Green Action Trust has been managing funds to help deliver the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) for 12 years now and community growing has always been a key component of this.
This year, a total of £100,000 has been distributed to successful projects in Aberdeenshire, Inverclyde, and beyond– many of which are located in some of Scotland’s most disadvantaged areas.
The aims and objectives of the ‘Growing Food Together’ Fund includes:
- Encourage community engagement in growing and learning about food;
- Promote healthy eating and habits;
- Reduce carbon footprint of consumed foods;
- Extend the growing season with polytunnels and cold-frames;
- Improve access to growing sites;
- Run training events at community growing spaces.
Joe FitzPatrick, Minister for Local Government Empowerment and Planning, said:
“I am delighted that, through our continued support of the Growing Food Together Fund, we are able to support eight more exciting projects which will allow local communities of all shapes and sizes to work together, to regenerate their local areas and grow their own fruit and vegetables.
“Since expanding eligibility two years ago to welcome applications from across the country, I am glad to see the fund continue to support a range of amazing projects from all over Scotland. I would like to give my thanks to all of the community groups who are working together to grow fresh and seasonal food, helping people to experience the simple pleasure that can be found by growing, harvesting and cooking your own produce.”
Derek Robertson, Chief Executive at the Green Action Trust, commented:
“It has been heartening to see so many applications coming in from groups across Scotland, all enthusing about developing growing projects in their communities. These initiatives bring to life so many of the Central Scotland Green Network’s aims, from physical and mental health to delivering multi-functional greenspace where it is needed most. I am delighted that this fund is continuing to support these communities and I will look forward to seeing the results of all their hard work.”
For further information please visit the CSGN website.