Grant hope to boost group’s rapid growth
A NEIGHBOURHOOD gardening scheme in Widnes has been shortlisted for a grant from a supermarket.
The charity Widnes Growing Together was founded by Cllr Andrea Wall to nurture skills and community spirit.
It is now one of three North West projects in the running for a grant.
Cllr Wall said that if it wins, a communal shed and patio could be installed along with raised beds to ensure residents with physical disabilities can take part.
Tesco’s Bags Of Help initiative will award grants of £12,000, £10,000 and £8,000 to neighbourhood groups, funded by cash from the 5p carrier bag charge. An in-store public vote from October 31 to November 13 will decide who should receive funding.
Cllr Wall, of Kingsway ward, said Widnes Growing Together was turning a disused green space into a community garden and allotment with disabled access.
She said it was served by a growing group of volunteers, adding that its fruit produce has already been used to make jams.
Cllr Wall said: “We put in a funding bid to the Tesco Bags Of Help Scheme back in June and I’m happy to announce that our project has been successfully shortlisted in the top three projects in our region.
“Winning this grant award would make a huge difference to how quickly we can do the things we want to achieve with the garden.”
Cllr Wall said volunteers are always welcome, call her on 07795 390 979.
The group also has a Facebook page.