Rhubarb and broad beans were among the first consignment of fresh produce from the Thrive Birmingham gardens given to a local food bank in Kings Heath.
In the coming weeks other organically grown food, such as onions, tomatoes, apples, pears, courgettes, squashes and brassicas, will also be supplied to feed those in need.
Since lockdown, Thrive Birmingham has been closed but 10 volunteers (including Mike pictured above) have been coming into the former TV gardens at different times to look after the produce planted by clients.
We’re delighted that while we’re not able to make use of our produce as usual, people in need can benefit via the food bank.
Kathryn Rossiter, Thrive CEO
Kathryn Rossiter, Thrive CEO, said: ‘Through the incredible hard work of our dedicated volunteers, the Thrive Birmingham gardens are continuing to be maintained and are proving as bountiful and productive as ever.
‘Not only are volunteers continuing to plant for later in the year when we can resume our horticultural therapy programmes, but they’ve also been looking after the plants sown by our client gardeners earlier in the year.
‘We’re delighted that while we’re not able to make use of our produce as usual, people in need can benefit via the food bank.’
Homeless charities and hostels are among those being supported by the food bank, which is based at The Station Pub on Kings Heath High Street.