Enfield Council, in partnership with the charity Cooking Champions has launched the "Grow, Feed, Eat, Read" project, a transformative community initiative aimed at empowering young people through education, nutrition, and sustainability.
The project, funded by Enfield Council's public health team and supported by the Council's library service, officially opened on Wednesday, 17 July.
The "Grow, Feed, Eat, Read" project revitalizes the disused space at the back of Edmonton Green Library, turning it into a vibrant garden and learning hub. This initiative provides a safe space for young people to gather, study, eat, and engage in enriching activities. Through a series of activities, young people will gain invaluable life skills, including:
- Understanding the basics of a healthy diet and the journey of food from seed to plate
- Learning food preparation techniques and the importance of seasonality in food supply
- Exploring the health impacts of various foods and promoting healthy eating habits
- Gaining insights into the circular economy and sustainable practices
- Challenging preconceived notions about unhealthy versus healthy food options, such as takeaways
- Budgeting for nutritious meals
- Networking and socializing in a safe, welcoming environment
Cooking Champions, an Enfield-based charity renowned for their dedication to food support, education, and training, is spearheading the development and delivery of the project. This initiative not only aims to educate young people about food and health but also strives to create a community of informed, health-conscious individuals who can share their knowledge with others.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture and Public Spaces, Cllr Chinelo Anyanwu, said: "The transformation of this disused space into a thriving garden and learning hub is a testament to what can be achieved through community collaboration. We are proud to support such a meaningful initiative that will benefit our young people and the wider community." Cllr Anyanwu officially opened the garden and the project, along with Clare Donovan, founder of Cooking Champions.
"We are incredibly excited to launch the 'Grow, Feed, Eat, Read' project," said Clare Donovan. "This garden will serve as a beacon of learning and growth for Enfield’s young people, offering them a hands-on opportunity to understand the importance of nutrition, sustainability, and community." Clare hosted the launch event and brought delicious food to demonstrate how the food garden can be used in sustainable, low-cost meals. The libraries team invited Brettenham Primary, a local school to take part in the event and support the launch of the Summer Reading Challenge “Marvellous Makers”.
Cllr Alev Cazimoglu, the Cabinet Member for Public Health added: “We know that all children should have the opportunity to be healthy and have access to good nutritious meals, no matter where they live. Access to nutritious food plays a fundamental part in a young person’s physical and mental development which is why this programme is so important. We are also creating a little oasis here, to help improve young people’s wellbeing and fundamentally offering a safe space for them to access help, advice and a place for social activities with their peers.”
Enfield Council's public health team has secured grant funding to support this innovative project, highlighting the Council's commitment to fostering community well-being and education. The library service's involvement further ensures that the project is deeply rooted in the community, providing a seamless integration of resources and support. SKU Architects and Herts and Homes both generously provided professional services to make the garden possible.
For more information about the "Grow, Feed, Eat, Read" project or to get involved, follow the Cooking Champions’ Instagram account or Enfield Council’s Enjoy Enfield account.
