Armidale not-for-profit GreenThumb Enterprises New England is sewing seeds of opportunity for disadvantage residents with their new Work for the Dole market garden.
The group have teamed up with TAFE New England to provides opportunities for participants, as well as a source of chemical free produce for the local community.
Director Robert Gasparre said the aim was to start by selling the produce at the Armidale Farmers’ Market.
“As the volume of produce increases, [we will] look to additional outlets such as local cafés, restaurants and shops,” he said.
Mr Gasoarre said growing a wide variety of food plants from around the world we hope to demonstrate how this region can explore the potential we have for the New England to supply more of its own produce.
“GreenThumb aims to demonstrate how people can grow their own food whether it be on a domestic or commercial basis,” he said.
In time, the team will look to expand its services to other groups.
