We're delighted to announce that Gentian Newcastle, part of our Healthcare division, will invest £5,000 per year for the next three years as garden sponsor of Ouseburn Farm in Newcastle.
Ouseburn Farm gardens are a place where local children and families can learn about where food comes from and see everyday staples like potatoes and tomatoes growing in front of their eyes. Food education is an important component in tackling childhood obesity as well as supporting parents to buy and consume food sustainably.
Nick Ekins, Managing Director said: "With retail services across many hospitals in the North East, we strive to support the local community where we operate. Ouseburn Farm is a fantastic local initiative and we hope our contribution will help the farm continue to thrive for all to enjoy."
Hugh Stolliday, Ouseburn Farm Manager added: "We are thrilled about this new partnership, especially after such a challenging nine months which forced the charity to scale back its services and staffing to survive. The pandemic has had a profound impact on our charity as social distancing and other public health measures have severely limited our ability to trade and fundraise. Support from Gentian Newcastle, and other generous local businesses and donors, is helping us get back on our feet and we are extremely grateful.
"Our gardens are integral to the Ouseburn Farm experience - we grow a wide variety of fruits and vegetables here showing the local community what's possible from small-scale, sustainable food production like ours. It's a quiet and peaceful corner of the farm, and the city, to help calm busy minds. Something we can all benefit from once the farm is open again to the public."
Gentian is proud to offer support through sponsorship and donations to community groups, sports teams, schools and charities in the vicinity of its offices, developments and property portfolio as part of its commitment to create a lasting positive social impact in the communities where the Group operates.