Over the last twelve months kind Curo colleagues have raised a grand total of £10,842 for Bath City Farm as their chosen Charity of the Year. Each year, Curo colleagues select a local charity to support and for the past year they’ve given their time and effort to support the farm, a place of fun and learning based near Curo’s offices in Twerton.
“As a social landlord with a charitable purpose, Curo knows just how important funding is to fuel the great work done every day,” says Victor da Cunha, Curo’s Chief Executive. “It’s been a real privilege to work with the farm’s wonderful team who do so much for our community, and we look forward to seeing their impact grow further in the future.”
Curo colleagues raised money for the farm through a variety of fundraising activities, including the Bath Half Marathon, the Three Peaks Challenge and a raffle.
Alison Howell, Communications Lead at Bath City Farm, says that the money raised will have a tremendous impact. “It will positively touch the lives of our team, volunteers and visitors in so many ways,” she says.
The money will help pay for food, bedding, shelter and vet bills for the farm’s animals, which include Shetland ponies, pigs, goats and chickens. “The animals are much loved by families and visitors, delighting and educate children and adults alike. They also play a vital role in our therapeutic work with participants of our health and wellbeing programmes. For many, the farm is a place to recover from acute mental distress and rebuild a healthier lifestyle, connecting with nature and each other. ”
The farm offers local people who are having issues with their mental health the chance to volunteer. Medical professionals can refer volunteers or they can refer themselves. “There are 140 volunteers at the farm and on Mondays and Wednesdays they help out, planting veg and tending to animals,” says Alison.
In June 2022 Curo colleagues fitted a new kitchen in the farm’s volunteer cabin: “This is now a bright, clean and welcoming space where volunteers can enjoy a welcome cup of tea and conversation between work on the farm,” says Alison.
Find out more about Bath City Farm, including how you can volunteer, here.