Shepparton’s newest arrivals are taking a step towards a healthier future with the creation of a community garden on the Kildonan UnitingCare site.
Clients from Kildonan’s Settlement Services programs are helping develop the garden as part of the Establishing Roots project, which was constructed following a Community Matching Grant from the Greater Shepparton City Council.
Local company Lenne Orchards donated a number of large fruit boxes which have been used as planter boxes and clients from the Asylum Seeker Support Program cleared the site in preparation for the soil and plants.
Kildonan UnitingCare Chief Executive Officer Stella Avramopoulos said the project would have long term benefits.
“Our Settlement Services clients will help maintain the garden, and the children from our multicultural playgroup will develop their own special vegie patch so their families can cook and eat the produce they grow,” she said.
“Participants will also be given seedlings to establish their own vegie patches at home.”
Kildonan’s Settlement Services aims to help new arrivals settle in and gain independence in their new communities. It fosters social participation, economic and personal wellbeing and connectedness with the community.
The program not only offers support, such as information and referral to key support services, but access to groups and social connections including homework clubs and a sewing group.
The activities are also supported by generous volunteers.
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