HOMELESS charity, Maggs Day Centre has launched a new community allotment project designed to support wellbeing, recovery and connection for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage across Worcestershire.
The allotment will provide a safe, purposeful outdoor space where people can come together to grow food, build confidence and develop routine in a supportive, non-judgemental environment.
More than just a growing space, the allotment is intended to become a place of belonging – offering structure, shared activity and meaningful connection for people who may be feeling isolated or disconnected.
By working side by side with volunteers, staff and the wider community, participants will have opportunities to rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing and take positive steps towards their personal goals.
Claire Hooper, Worcester and South Worcestershire Service Lead at Maggs, said: “For many people we support, having a reason to get up, be outdoors and feel part of something can make a huge difference.
“This allotment gives people a calm, welcoming space where they can build skills, connect with others and experience a real sense of achievement.
“It’s about dignity, wellbeing and recovery – and doing that together.”
The allotment will grow fruit, vegetables and flowers as companion crops, with produce used to support Maggs’ day centres and to provide fresh vegetable boxes for tenants and service users.
Crops will also be used by SEN students at Heart of Worcestershire College for their Thursday lunch provision at Worcester Day Centre, strengthening links between education, community and support services.
As the project gets underway, Maggs is inviting local residents, businesses and organisations to play a role in helping bring the allotment to life.
Donations of garden tools and equipment are needed, including spades, forks, trowels, secateurs and rakes (new or well used), alongside gardening gloves, wellies in all sizes, watering cans, wheelbarrows and garden trugs.
Maggs is also appealing for surplus fruit bushes or strawberry plants, as well as support from anyone willing to grow seedlings at home ready for planting out later in the spring.
“Volunteers will be central to making this project work,” said Steph Maton, Volunteer and Training Co-ordinator.
“Whether someone can give a few hours helping prepare the site, grow plants at home, or support our weekly sessions, they’ll be making a real, visible difference. This is a brilliant opportunity for people to get involved in something practical, positive and genuinely life changing.”
Maggs is currently seeking six to eight volunteers to support the initial set-up phase during February and March, as well as the ongoing running of the allotment once sessions begin in April.
Email [email protected] or visit www.maggsdaycentre.co.uk for more information.
