SPONSORSHIP from the Loreburn Housing Association has funded the provisions for over 1500 free potatoes for people in Annan.
Thanks to the £456 grant, Rotary members in Annan have been able to team up with local groups and charities to help alleviate hunger and support those most vulnerable in the community.
The initial group of like-minded individuals began by growing potatoes themselves with the idea of delivering them, free of charge, to lunch clubs and elderly residents.
Jim Ferguson, Annan and District Rotarian who launched the initiative, said: “I love gardening but with my Loreburn property being a flat, with no outside space, my fingers are not very green anymore.
“That’s why I came up with the idea of the Rotary Club growing a few bags of potatoes to distribute to vulnerable people within our catchment area – mainly in Annan and Gretna.
“From this, the initiative just kept growing. With the backing of local charities, hundreds of potatoes are now being grown meaning even more people can benefit.”
With only a small number of members the club has had an impact far beyond its size, amplifying its efforts by encouraging local charities and businesses to join the initiative.
The venture has been supported by Caledonia Park in Gretna, Kate’s Kitchen in Annan, The Devils Porridge Museum in Eastriggs and Queensberry Bay Leisure Park in Powfoot.
The money has enabled the project organisers to buy potato growing bags, compost and potato seeds, which have now been given to local partners.
Jim continued: “Rotarians are always seeking out ways to serve communities and ultimately to change lives.
“Food insecurity is a major concern in our region, but ensuring vulnerable people have access to fresh, local produce is a step towards addressing this.
“All potato growing bags, compost bags and seed potatoes have been handed out and are happily growing – ready to be harvested in a few months’ time.
“We’d like to thank everyone at Loreburn Housing Association for their continued support.”
