Bosses at the new Gorgie Farm are aiming to connect a host of local organisations with families in need of extra support during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a new initiative.
The well-loved urban farm, which was taken over at the tail end of last year, will help link neighbours with a network of charities and foundations providing essential services that may otherwise be unavailable.
The farm, now known as LOVE Gorgie Farm, has already joined forces with the Big Hearts Community Trust - run by Heart of Midlothian FC - to provide access to their foodbank and breakfast club, which delivers a nutritious free meal to start the day for youngsters in the local community.
Referrals to Big Hearts can now be directed to LOVE Gorgie Farm for food provisions.
They are now calling on other organisations to join their link-up.
Amber Isaacs, Project Manager at LOVE Gorgie Farm said: “LOVE Gorgie Farm has been at the heart of the local community for years, and in this time of crisis, we felt that it was vital to ensure everyone in the area is being fully supported.
“By linking with other organisations supporting the most vulnerable people in the area, we have been able to not only address any gaps in support provided but have also managed to tear down the barriers that individuals had to face when accessing support.
“The support received from all the members has been exceptional and we are already seeing the positive effects of this collaboration amongst individuals and families of the area.”
More than £100,000 was raised in a city-wide crowdfunder last year to save the beloved urban farm after it collapsed into administration.
The farm reopened in February, but was forced to close its doors again less than a month later amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Katriona Gillespie, Chair of local arts organisation Gorgie Collective, said: "It is so positive to see local volunteer and charitable organisations pulling together to support our community here in Gorgie-Dalry.
“By signposting help and sharing resources, we can make sure that help gets to everyone who needs it at the right time."
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