Bryncynon Community Revival Strategy
Get in touch with us at info@new.com
Registered Charity Number: 1067535 Registered Company Number: 3195860
Community Garden Project
In 2023, we were excited to receive news that our application to 'Keep Wales Tidy' for the Community Growing Project was approved. With this funding, we transformed our garden into a vibrant community growing space.
Many in the local area are aware that the gardens were originally established as community and memorial gardens in 2009. Funding at that time allowed for the installation of seating and stonework art to honor community members we’ve lost over the years. We didn’t want to overlook this important history; instead, we aimed to integrate it into our newly designed gardens while making the space functional for growing our own produce.
We believe we’ve achieved a balance by preserving elements of the original memorial garden and repositioning them throughout the area. This not only enhances the space but also revitalises a previous project.
Our Goals
Our garden serves as a community space where we invite local members to help grow fresh produce for our cookery courses and to supplement our Community Food Pantry Project.
More importantly, we aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for community members to socialize and learn new skills. Through the garden, we’ve strengthened our connections with local schools by hosting events that engage classrooms in community growing activities. These events have sparked lively conversations with children and encouraged their interest in nature.
Why Join a Community Garden?
Community gardens offer numerous benefits for both individuals and the wider community:
Personal Benefits
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Skill Development: Learn gardening techniques, plant care, and sustainable practices to enhance your horticultural knowledge.
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Physical Activity: Gardening involves various physical tasks that can improve your fitness and overall health.
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Mental Well-Being: Spending time in nature and engaging in hands-on activities can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
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Social Connections: Volunteering promotes community interaction, allowing individuals to meet new people, build friendships, and foster a sense of belonging.
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Sense of Accomplishment: Watching plants thrive and contributing to the garden’s success can instill a strong sense of achievement and pride.
Community Benefits
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Food Security: Community gardens provide fresh fruits and vegetables, improving access to healthy food options for local residents.
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Environmental Impact: These gardens support biodiversity, enhance local ecosystems, and improve air quality through increased green spaces.
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Community Cohesion: Gardens serve as gathering places for community events, workshops, and educational programs, fostering collaboration and unity.
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Educational Opportunities: They offer hands-on learning experiences for schools and local organiSations, teaching about nutrition, sustainability, and ecology.
Long-Term Impact
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Sustainability Awareness: Volunteering raises awareness about sustainable practices and inspires others to engage in eco-friendly activities.
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Empowerment: Community gardens empower residents to take an active role in improving their environment and advocating for local food systems.
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Cultural Exchange: These spaces facilitate the sharing of diverse cultural practices related to gardening and food, enriching the community’s social fabric.
In summary, volunteering in a community garden is a rewarding experience that benefits individuals while making a positive impact on the broader community.