1000km for Alder Trust

Alder Trust believes that every community can thrive through recognising the knowledge, skills and talents within that community, and by harnessing that wealth through building relational networks that recognise and serve each other. We run two major projects in Southampton - Firgrove and Aldermoor Community Farm.

The work of the trust, through the Firgrove Centre and the Aldermoor Community Farm has continued uninterrupted throughout lockdown. At the outset of the pandemic, we made the decision not to furlough our staff, and they have been continuing to provide services throughout the pandemic.

At Firgrove, our counsellors have been providing care via the phone, Zoom, and internet apps. At this time more than ever our clients need help and support. We have also been asked to consider providing counselling support to NHS staff in the future, as the trauma of their work has taken a heavy mental toll. We have taken the opportunity while clients were prevented from coming to the centre, to completely redecorate; money for this work had previously been given by grateful clients. We would now like to provide that little bit extra for our counsellors, in providing some new furniture and blinds.

Work is never allowed to stop on a farm, and Richard and his team have had a very busy spring planting, sowing and harvesting, providing much needed eggs and vegetables for the local community. Richard has been able to appoint a new shop manager, Emma, and she has already proved to be invaluable to the expanding work of the farm.

Throughout August, we will be doing a sponsored event where team members will walk/run/cycle in aid of Alder Trust. We need to raise £3000 to cover our current needs. Whilst we are conscious that many of you have been impacted financially, any help that you can give us will be much appreciated.

Thank you so much for your help!