John Howard Society of Victoria
Program: Feeding Ourselves and Others Garden
Vital Sign: Belonging & Engagement
Total Grant: $12,835
In 2012 the John Howard Society of Victoria initiated a therapeutic community garden for people with mental illness or addiction issues – heavy users of public services, many having committed offences. Supported by VIHA's community outreach teams, the Victoria Integrated Court sub-committee, and donors and volunteers, a very successful community garden was started at Seven Oaks in the Blenkinsop Valley. In this project, more than 30 participants and community volunteers aim to establish a larger therapeutic and income-generating garden in 2014 and beyond. Through phase two and by documenting its program, it will be an integrated approach that will be a model that other at-risk groups can learn from and emulate.
