Gardening grants up for grabs

Rural schools in the Bay of Plenty are being given the chance to win $2000 as Rural Women New Zealand and Farmlands team up to give away six gardening grants to North Island rural primary schools.

Each of the six winning schools chosen will receive $2000 in prize money from the proceeds from the Farmlands Ladies’ Nights.

This is the third year Rural Women New Zealand and Farmlands have given grants to North Island rural schools.

In the first year, more than 120 entries were made by schools to receive funding for shade sails in schools.

Last year Rural Women New Zealand and Farmlands presented cheques for road safety initiatives in Ruatoki in the Eastern Bay of plenty, as well as schools in Matakohe, Elstow, Manakau and Kai Iwi.

Rural Women NZ national president Liz Evans says they are delighted to be able to partner with Farmlands once again to give away gardening grants from funds raised at these events.

“There’s a magic about planting seeds and growing your own fruit and veges. We’re keen to encourage children to learn the skills for what can become an enjoyable hobby and a way of providing healthy food for families.”

The $2000 ’Grow Your Own’ grants can be used to set up, or further develop, a rural school garden or orchard.

The winning schools will also receive a copy of A Good Harvest - Recipes from the Gardens of Rural Women New Zealand, as well as gardening equipment, soil nutrients and seeds.

Dates for the Farmlands Ladies Nights and application forms for the ’Grow Your Own’ North Island rural school gardening grants can be found at www.ruralwomen.org.nz

Grant applications close on November 2.