Growing Links Launches Crowdfunder with Aviva Match Funding, Partnership with Cornwall Council, and Exhibition by Michael Knight to Support Community Initiatives

Growing Links, a grassroots organisation dedicated to alleviating food poverty and building a resilient, sustainable food system, is excited to announce the launch of its latest Crowdfunder campaign. Now live on Crowdfunder UK the campaign is already at 60% of its £20,000 goal.

The funds raised will support Growing Links' move to the new Safe & Well Hub in Penzance and provide running costs for Growing Links Street Food Project until Christmas. Every donation up to £250 will be matched by the Aviva Community Fund, and an additional £5,000 will come from Cornwall Council’s Climate and Nature Fund, conditional upon reaching the target. The organisation is calling on the community to get involved and help meet their goal.

Growing Links also acknowledges Penzance Town Council for their generous £8,300 grant, which has funded an electric kitchen at the Safe & Well hub. The move enables Growing Links to work more closely with Cornwall Council services, expanding their reach and enhancing support to those in need. Most importantly, it offers the Street Food Project attendees a warm, dry space to enjoy their meals with comfort and dignity.

In conjunction with the crowdfunding effort, Growing Links is honoured to host an exhibition by local artist and volunteer Michael Knight. The exhibition, titled “It’s OK Not to Be OK,” centres on mental health, a theme close to Knight’s heart. His evocative works aim to foster conversations about mental health and highlight the importance of community support. Proceeds from the exhibition will go towards Growing Links' ongoing initiatives.

Beyond immediate food relief, Growing Links focuses on long-term resilience through community garden projects, educational workshops, and empowering individuals to grow their own food. These initiatives nourish both bodies and minds, cultivating skills, confidence, and connections, while benefiting the health of the community and the planet.

"We are incredibly grateful for the support from the Aviva Community Fund, which will double the impact of every pound donated," said Lynne Dyer, Managing Director of Growing Links. "Our partnership with Cornwall Council, the grant from Penzance Town Council, and Michael Knight’s exhibition are tremendous opportunities to further our mission of building a more resilient, connected, and compassionate community."

Michael Knight, who also runs the men’s volunteering sessions at Growing Links' community garden, shared his thoughts on the exhibition: "This exhibition is about breaking the silence around mental health. Working with Growing Links has shown me how important it is to have spaces where people can connect and support each other. I hope this exhibition raises both funds and awareness of the mental health challenges our community faces."

Growing Links is also proud to unveil its new branding and marketing campaign, launched alongside the Crowdfunder. This fresh new look and strategic marketing approach were developed in collaboration with Graphic Design BA students from Falmouth University. The rebrand aims to better communicate Growing Links' mission, strengthen its presence within the community, and enhance its engagement with supporters.

Growing Links invites the public to support the Crowdfunder campaign, attend the exhibition, and help continue making a profound difference in the community. Together, we can keep strengthening the links that bind our community in solidarity and support.