Kit’s time to get growing

More than 300 growing starter kits will be given away to communities across the country.

It’s part of this year’s Get Ireland Growing project organised by Energia and GIY.

Due to Covid-19, people re-evaluated how important local communities are for physical and mental wellbeing.

Green spaces became a sanctuary for most people during the pandemic, particularly in the height of lockdowns and for those without a garden. As Ireland continues to reopen and normalise, Energia and GIY hope to encourage communities to regenerate green spaces in their local areas and further re-ignite community spirit and connection.

Mick Kelly, Founder of GIY, said: “Growing food as a community has always been a part of Irish culture. This year, Energia Get Ireland Growing is all about getting back to growing food together and reconnecting with nature by recapturing the skills and reaping the rewards of growing your own food.

“It is about bringing to life the spaces we share and tending to the communal plot. As we are coming into summer it’s the perfect time to start planting some of our favourite vegetables and we’re thrilled to be partnering with Energia again to help in our mission to bring food growing back to the heart of the Irish community.

“Let’s nurture what’s in our nature and Get Ireland Growing again.”

Author of ‘Owning It’ and ‘The Confidence Kit’, Caroline Foran said: “I noticed a massive rise in anxiety due to the ongoing pandemic and a lot of people who have never felt anxiety before suddenly felt it.

“Energia Get Ireland Growing aims to stimulate conversation and inspire action across communities in Ireland, by encouraging people to start growing and strengthening their community spirit and personal wellbeing.

“Activities like gardening and growing your own food gives you a chance to focus on something and put your mind to work with a goal and a task in mind and is a great opportunity for bonding with your family and friends.

“The happiness and stress relief of an activity like growing food and seeing something come to life provides a great opportunity to connect with loved ones.”

Sponsorship Manager at Energia, Lorna Danaher said: “We are passionate about helping communities across Ireland become more sustainable and connected.

“We know more people are increasingly interested in trying to live a more sustainable life but are not always sure how or where to start.”