UPDATE 16th OCTOBER - THIS WILL EXPLAIN WHY THE TARGET IS NOW 8K

Beyond all expectations the original target of £1000 was exceeded within 72 hours.

This will fund Group Insurance Cover for two years with the residue put towards plants and tools etc.

This demonstrates that saving this community project from closure means so much to you.

To everyone that has donated, including one donation of £250, Derek a regular volunteer £100, Gloria my dear sister-in-law in Australia £50 and all the advice on potential funding.

THANK YOU!

Dear Leigh with the blond hair has led the group since the project started in September 2020..

£150 'Daily Rate' Funding (approx 5k yearly) for Leigh expired in June 2023.

Since then this wonderful life force and natural leader, has worked UNPAID.

Leigh works part time and can no longer sustain this situation.

Leigh has brought ‘sunshine’ and ‘karma’ to the group, making us laugh and keeping us motivated even when it is dark grey and cold.

With a wealth of wisdom and gardening knowledge the project would not be the same without Leigh.

£8000 = 50 Weekly Sessions led by Leigh paid the ‘Daily Rate’ including insurance cover.

On the 9th October all volunteers at The Forest Hill Library Community Garden were notified with very sad news that due to a lack of funding, our FINAL volunteer session will take place on the 17th October.

Over a number of years this two section garden has been transformed from a soil polluted wasteland, to a beautiful safe tranquil place combining food to grow alongside a great variety of flowers and shrubs.

The adjacent garden is more 'wild' and a haven for birds, butterflies and insects.

All year round every Thursday from 09.30-12.20hrs a lovely diverse team of ego free volunteers have attended.

Some like myself (a regular volunteer since February 2023) with mental health challenges, have found the opportunity to meet with others in our community, combined with my love of nature and gardening to be so invaluable for my well-being and much more.

For some this garden is a rare opportunity to meet with others and reduce feelings of isolation.

Closure of this community resource would have a significant impact on all volunteers that attend.

WITH YOUR HELP THE GARDEN CAN REMAIN OPEN

& LEIGH CAN CONTINUE AS A ‘PAID’ SESSION LEADER

THANK YOU.