Growing Links In Penzance Launches Crowdfunder with Major Support: Can They Reach Their Target?

Penzance – Growing Links Gears Up to Tackle Food Poverty

Growing Links, a grassroots organisation from Penzance, has launched a Crowdfunder campaign to tackle food poverty and support its new Safe & Well Hub. The campaign, already 60% funded, aims to raise £20,000 and has attracted support from major partners, including the Aviva Community Fund and Cornwall Council’s Climate and Nature Fund.

The funds will help cover running costs for Growing Links’ Street Food Project (SFP), which provides hot meals to those experiencing homelessness or food insecurity. With Aviva matching donations up to £250 and Cornwall Council pledging an extra £5,000 if the full target is met, the group is calling on the public to help them reach their goal by Christmas. You can find the Crowdfunder campaign here.

Community Support and Penzance Town Council’s Contribution

The move to the Safe & Well Hub has been made possible, in part, by an £8,300 grant from Penzance Town Council, which funded an electric kitchen at the new facility. This new hub will allow Growing Links to expand its services, offering a warm, dry space for those in need to enjoy their meals with dignity.

The group is also working closely with Cornwall Council, aiming to enhance its outreach and support through the hub. This collaboration is a key step in strengthening community support for those facing food poverty and homelessness.

Art Exhibition to Raise Awareness of Mental Health

As part of the fundraising efforts, Growing Links has partnered with local artist Michael Knight, who has created an exhibition titled “It’s OK Not to Be OK” to support the campaign. The exhibition focuses on mental health and aims to open up conversations on this important topic.

Michael, who also runs men’s volunteering sessions at Growing Links’ community garden, hopes the exhibition will raise both awareness and funds for the group’s ongoing work. Proceeds from the exhibition will go towards supporting Growing Links’ community efforts, from feeding the vulnerable to building resilience through garden projects.

A Long-Term Vision for Food Security and Wellbeing

While the immediate goal is to sustain their Street Food Project, Growing Links is also focused on long-term resilience. Through community garden projects and educational workshops, the organisation is empowering individuals to grow their own food, which promotes both physical and mental well-being.

The group recently rebranded to better communicate their mission and engage supporters. The new look, developed in collaboration with Falmouth University graphic design students, has been launched alongside the Crowdfunder campaign.

Growing Links invites the public to get involved by donating to the Crowdfunder, attending the exhibition, and helping to make a lasting impact on the community. Together, the group believes they can continue to make Penzance a more resilient and compassionate place for all.

For more information on how to donate or get involved, visit the Crowdfunder page here.