This project, running since 2013, offers people at risk of social exclusion, including migrants, and their families the possibility of participating in community-based efforts to produce organic vegetables for self-consumption in the neighbourhood of Ca n’Anglada in Terrassa.
The project is designed specifically for people supported by social services. Each participant receives basic training in organic horticulture and manages a garden plot for 2 years to grow vegetables. The project is leading the way on integration, inclusion and sustainability in Spain, and has served as inspiration for other initiatives, including Madrid-based project Huerto Inclusivo Comunitario (meaning 'Inclusive Community Garden').
Project Goal
The project aims to:
- improve living conditions for participating families
- establish a routine for participants to follow, during which they enhance their abilities and competences, while taking on some degree of responsibility
- provide basic coverage of participants’ need for fresh food
- promote sharing, collaboration and other community values
- support participants' personal promotion
- foster intra-community support and solidarity
Who benefits
People residing in the Ca n’Anglada neighbourhood (Terrassa) who are aged between 18 and 65 and are registered with the social services of Terrassa and, by extension, the families of these individuals and the wider community.
How it works
Each participant is enrolled for a 2-year period to cultivate their own crop in the orchard. The orchard is divided into two blocks: the first is a community plot of 320 square meter, for which all participants need to decide collectively which crops is cultivated, and the second comprises 22 smaller plots of 40 square meter each, assigned to individuals and/or their families. Each participant decides what to plant in their individual plot, and is responsible for maintaining it.
The project also runs social gatherings, meetings and classes. Classes are delivered weekly and focus on ecological agriculture and social and communication skills. In addition participants can attend the local community fair, where they can sell products made from the produce they've grown, such as candles, creams, tea infusions and more.
Results
200 people have so far participated in the project. Positive results in terms of job placements have been reported, and participants note an increased sense of personal security and self-confidence. They also give positive feedback on the agricultural production and emotional and social benefits of the programme.
Evaluation
Evaluation of the project, conducted with input from participants, considers the following dimensions:
- individual: satisfaction criteria, personal self-evaluation, learning, cultivation, autonomy
- group: participation and creation of groups, results of the action of these groups
- community: aspects of coexistence, decision-making, organisation, and planning and general participation
Project assessment carried out by professionals evaluates the orchard as a tool for social work, the quantitative and qualitative impact of the project in the area, the quality of social services, and the contribution of the project to future employment planning.
Further information on project implementation can be found here.
Funding and resources
The project has an annual budget of approximately €25 000, which is covered by the municipal social services of Terrassa.
About this good practice
- Project dates
- Geographic area
- Spain
- City
- Terrassa (Barcelona)
- Organisation
- Terrassa’s municipal social services
- Website
- Contact person
- Montserrat Hernández
- Position
- District 21 Social Services Manager
Details
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