About Growing communities
Growing Communities: Changing the Food System One Carrot at a Time
Growing Communities is a social enterprise that aims to revolutionize the food system by promoting sustainable and ethical practices in agriculture. The company offers various services, including a fruit and veg box scheme, an organic farmers' market, and volunteer opportunities on their farms in Hackney and Dagenham.
The company's mission is to create a fairer food system that benefits everyone involved, from farmers to consumers. They believe that by supporting local growers and reducing waste, they can help build stronger communities while also protecting the environment.
One of Growing Communities' most popular services is their fruit and veg box scheme. This program allows customers to receive fresh produce directly from local farmers on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. The boxes are customizable based on dietary preferences, ensuring that customers receive only the fruits and vegetables they want.
By participating in this program, customers not only support local agriculture but also reduce their carbon footprint by avoiding supermarket produce shipped from faraway places. Additionally, Growing Communities ensures that all of their suppliers adhere to strict ethical standards regarding labor practices and environmental impact.
Another way Growing Communities promotes sustainable agriculture is through their organic farmers' market. This weekly event brings together local growers who sell fresh produce directly to consumers. By cutting out middlemen like supermarkets or distributors, these farmers can earn more money for their crops while offering lower prices for shoppers.
The market also serves as an educational tool for visitors who may not be familiar with how food is grown or where it comes from. By interacting with growers face-to-face, customers can learn about different varieties of fruits and vegetables as well as farming techniques used in urban areas like Hackney or Dagenham.
Finally, Growing Communities offers volunteer opportunities on their farms for those interested in getting hands-on experience with sustainable agriculture practices. Volunteers work alongside experienced growers planting seeds, harvesting crops or tending animals such as chickens or bees.
These opportunities not only provide valuable experience for volunteers but also help support the local food system by providing additional labor for small-scale farmers. Volunteers can learn about the challenges and rewards of sustainable agriculture while contributing to a more equitable and environmentally friendly food system.
In conclusion, Growing Communities is a social enterprise that is changing the food system one carrot at a time. By promoting sustainable agriculture practices, supporting local growers, and reducing waste, they are creating a fairer and more ethical food system that benefits everyone involved. Whether you participate in their fruit and veg box scheme, visit their organic farmers' market or volunteer on their farms in Hackney or Dagenham, you can be sure that you are making a positive impact on your community and the environment.