The Impact of Community Garden Grants on Charnwood Community Gardens
Applications are now open for the 2024–25 Community Garden Grants program. This year, the program is providing up to $100,000 in funding for projects that aim to build healthier communities, demonstrate best-practice sustainability, and have strong community support. Over the past nine years, the program has successfully helped establish 87 community gardens across Canberra, including the one in Charnwood.
Creating a Safe Haven in Charnwood
Charnwood Community Garden Convenor, Teresa Rose, highlighted the importance of the grant in protecting local gardeners in extreme weather conditions. She shared a harrowing experience where two gardeners were caught in a hailstorm without any shelter, resulting in injuries and fear. This incident prompted the community to apply for a Community Garden Grant to construct a shelter.
With approximately $4,500 in funding from the Community Garden Grant, matched funding from the Canberra Organic Growers Society, and additional funds raised by the gardeners themselves, the group was able to build a shelter that now serves as a refuge during inclement weather.
Under the shelter, the temperature is several degrees cooler than outside, providing a comfortable environment for gardeners to relax and unwind. Teresa emphasized the positive impact of the shelter, stating that it has become a central meeting spot for committee meetings and community-building events.
Grant Applications and Funding Streams
This year, the Community Garden Grants program offers $100,000 in funding split across two streams:
- Stream One: Includes $40,000 (up to $8,000 per project) for minor improvements or expansion of existing gardens and establishing new, small low-impact gardens.
- Stream Two: Includes $60,000 (up to $30,000 per project) for establishing new large-scale food production community gardens and significant garden infrastructure to increase food production in existing gardens.
Not-for-profit community organizations, schools, churches, and owners’ corporations are eligible to apply for the grants. Community gardens offer a multitude of benefits, such as creating opportunities for people to grow and consume local food, providing a space for social interaction and connection with nature, promoting physical activity, and fostering skill development.
Application Details and Deadline
For more information on the Community Garden Grants program and to submit an application, visit the official webpage. The deadline for applications is 5:00 pm on Thursday, July 11, 2024.
Conclusion
The Community Garden Grants program has had a profound impact on the Charnwood Community Gardens, providing a safe haven for local gardeners and fostering community engagement. With the availability of funding for new projects, more communities can benefit from the establishment of sustainable and inclusive community gardens.
FAQs
What are the benefits of community gardens?
- Community gardens promote local food production and consumption.
- They offer a space for social interaction and connection with nature.
- Community gardens encourage physical activity and skill development.