National Allotment Week: How a community project is caring for our common home

Thursday 12th August 2021

A small corner of creation in the heart of Manchester city centre is inspiring locals to live out the principles of caring for our common home.

This week, we’re celebrating National Allotment Week by shining a light on the Lalley Community Allotment – a vital community project that provides locally-grown, seasonal produce for the local food bank, whilst connecting people through a shared interest in the outdoors.

Run by Caritas Diocese of Salford, the Lalley Centre’s Community Allotment in Collyhurst takes inspiration from Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls on us all to make practical changes to address the environmental crisis our world is facing and the challenges that creates for communities around the world.

 

As an active leader in tackling environmental, economic, and social injustice, Caritas Diocese of Salford works closely with a number of initiatives to answer this call, including the Laudato Si Centre at the bishop’s residence Wardley Hall, and the Northern Diocesan Environmental Forum.

The Lalley Community Allotment also boasts a thriving intergenerational outreach programme for schools, corporate businesses, and community groups, to encourage them discover new hobbies and live in a more sustainable way.

An oasis of tranquility in a bustling city centre, the allotment is also a fantastic tool for promoting mental health and wellbeing; creating opportunities for social interaction, the chance to develop new skills and reconnect with nature – a true blessing for many during the restrictions of the Covid pandemic.

Allotment co-ordinator Ladislav Maluch, said: “Our allotment needs you, but you may find you need the allotment.

“Giving your time and effort brings purpose and joy, and yet many need to realise that. It leaves people fulfilled after spending some meaningful time and also keeps you fit and health. Not lastly, it’s fun to socialise in a garden or be quietly at work on your own.

“People need love and food – we provide both!”

To find out more about how you can get involved with the Lalley Centre’s Community Allotment or make a donation, head to the Caritas Diocese of Salford website now.

Tagged | Caritas Salford | Education | Environment