Founded in 1860 in East London, we support some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in society. Every year Providence Row helps around 1,400 people affected by homelessness in Tower Hamlets, City of London, Hackney and those from neighbouring boroughs to overcome severe disadvantage and exclusion (financial and social), so they can get off, and stay off, the streets and begin their journey to recovery and a stable, secure life. In this blog Tom Hill, Head of Philanthropy at Providence Row explores how homelessness can be tackled through urban agriculture.
GROWING FOOD, GROWING HOPE
Bringing food growing into homelessness support services
Homelessness remains one of the most pressing social issues in the UK and beyond, affecting thousands of individuals who struggle with housing insecurity, financial hardship, and limited access to essential services. While the challenge is complex, innovative solutions are emerging to not only provide shelter but also offer dignity, empowerment, and sustainable change. One such solution is the integration of food growing initiatives into homelessness support services.
The Intersection of Homelessness and Food Insecurity
People experiencing homelessness often face food insecurity, relying on food banks, shelters, and donations to meet their basic needs. These sources, while essential, can be inconsistent and limit access to fresh, nutritious food. Additionally, many homeless individuals experience social isolation and a lack of meaningful activities, exacerbating mental health struggles and feelings of exclusion from society.
At the same time, urban areas are experiencing a growing interest in community gardens, vertical farming, and sustainable food initiatives. These projects can serve as more than just a source of fresh produce; they can offer therapeutic benefits, employment opportunities, and a sense of community for those involved.
Clients receiving certificates
Barriers to Food Growing for People Experiencing Homelessness
While food-growing initiatives have the potential to provide numerous benefits, people experiencing homelessness often face several significant barriers to participation:
- Lack of Land and Resources – Without stable housing, individuals do not have access to land to cultivate their own food. The cost of essential gardening supplies such as tools, compost, and seeds further limits participation.
- Transient Living Situations – Many homeless individuals do not remain in one place for long, making it difficult to commit to long-term gardening projects, particularly for those in emergency or temporary accommodation.
- Health and Wellbeing Challenges – Mental health conditions, substance use, and physical health issues can affect a person’s ability to engage in gardening programs consistently.
- Limited Post-Training Opportunities – While some programs offer gardening training, there is often a lack of follow-up opportunities to continue developing skills and engaging in long-term projects.
- Risk of Vandalism and Anti-Social Behaviour – Open community gardens can be vulnerable to theft, vandalism, or neglect, which can be disheartening for participants who have invested time and effort into the project.
- Commitment Challenges – Regular attendance can be difficult due to unstable living conditions, lack of transport, or personal circumstances that affect participation on a given day.
Visit to Spitalfields City Farm
The Benefits of Growing Food for People Facing Homelessness
Despite these barriers, engaging in food-growing projects can be highly beneficial:
- Access to Nutritious Food – By integrating food-growing initiatives into homelessness services, individuals can access fresh, healthy ingredients, improving diet quality and overall well-being.
- Therapeutic and Mental Health Benefits – Gardening has been widely recognised as a therapeutic activity, reducing stress, improving mood, and providing a sense of purpose. For people who have experienced trauma or long-term hardship, working with plants can be healing.
- Skill Development and Employment Pathways – Food growing initiatives can serve as training grounds for people to learn horticultural skills, boosting confidence and employability. Many organisations already run urban farming programs that lead to jobs in landscaping, agriculture, and sustainability sectors.
- Building Community and Reducing Isolation – Working together in a communal garden fosters social connections, creating support networks that can be crucial for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.
- Sustainability and Environmental Benefits – Urban agriculture projects contribute to greener cities, reduce food waste, and promote sustainable living practices.
Real-Life Examples of Impact
Across the UK, projects like Providence Row’s Garden Trainee Scheme, and, The Green Gym; both in London, and, Growing Together in Manchester, provide structured programmes where people experiencing homelessness can take part in gardening and conservation work and access food-growing initiatives as part of the wider response to these individuals’ homelessness. Social enterprises and charities are establishing community gardens where individuals can gain new skills, build relationships, and grow their own food. Some organisations also provide paid apprenticeships and training in horticulture, helping people move towards financial independence.
Additionally, one client, having completed Providence Row’s programme titled ‘Providence G-Row’ began trying to revive an abandoned community farm in East London with the hope of turning it into a thriving community garden. While such projects require financial and institutional support, they demonstrate the desire potential of food-growing initiatives in empowering individuals experiencing homelessness.
How You Can Help
If you’re interested in supporting initiatives that link food-growing with homelessness solutions, there are many ways to get involved:
Volunteer – Many community gardens and social enterprises rely on volunteers to help with planting, harvesting, and mentoring participants.
Donate – Financial contributions or donations of seeds, tools, and equipment can help sustain these projects.
Advocate – Raise awareness about the benefits of food-growing initiatives for homelessness support and encourage policymakers to invest in sustainable solutions.
Support your local Homeless day centre, hostel or Social Enterprise – Purchase produce from your local charity or social enterprise that trains and/or employs individuals who have experienced homelessness.
Growing Hope
Homelessness is a complex issue that requires a multi-pronged approach.
Integrating food-growing initiatives into support services provides a holistic approach that not only addresses food insecurity but also empowers individuals, fosters community, and promotes sustainable practices. By growing food, we can also grow hope, opportunities, and a future where no one is left behind.