North vegetable garden offers food security and empowerment

The Life-Changing Project (TLCP), a non-profit organisation from Akasia in the north of Pretoria dedicated to empowering vulnerable populations, has launched a transformative vegetable garden initiative.

The organisation’s mission focuses on overcoming poverty, inequality, and social injustice by providing comprehensive support services to homeless individuals, children, and families.

According to Founder Tebogo Sehlwane, the vegetable garden project exemplifies the organisation’s mission to address food insecurity and promote community engagement through sustainable gardening.

“The idea of the winter vegetable garden emerged from the combination of community needs and resource availability.

The staff and volunteers identified that many families struggled to access fresh produce.

With a previously unused plot of land and interest in gardening from community members, the project was born,” said Sehlwane.

Sehlwane said that local nurseries and gardening supply stores also offered to donate seeds, tools, and expertise, making the initiative feasible.

“Beneficiaries of the project were selected through a thorough needs assessment, targeting those who struggle with food insecurity, have limited income or belong to vulnerable groups.

We conduct community outreach through social media, flyers and partner organisations,” he said.

To ensure success, TLCP provides comprehensive resources and support, including seeds, gardening tools, soil, irrigation systems and regular training sessions on gardening techniques.

Sehlwane said experienced gardeners offer one-on-one mentorship and community groups are encouraged to share knowledge and resources.

Maria Mbunda, a single mother, now harvests fresh produce for her family, significantly reducing their reliance on food assistance.

A diabetic John Chauke has seen improved health due to the nutritious produce from his garden.

The project has also promoted environmental awareness, with beneficiaries adopting sustainable gardening practices such as composting and water conservation.

“TLCP plans to expand and replicate the initiative to other areas and seasons.

Community-led expansion and partnerships with local organisations will further enhance the initiative’s impact,” said Sehlwane.

He said the organisation wants to incorporate innovative technologies like hydroponics and vertical farming, advocate for supportive policies and conduct research to improve gardening techniques.

“An alumni network will help past beneficiaries stay connected and share experiences.

The vegetable garden initiative is fostering a sustainable supportive ecosystem, enabling marginalised populations to break the cycle of poverty and thrive,” he said.

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