Bringing communities together through a love of food and nature
The Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Grangetown, Cardiff, Wales’s oldest and largest Hindu temple, has long been a focal point for cultural, spiritual and social life. What would be possible if the community had land of its own to nurture, grow food and create a shared and inclusive space for all? That question began a journey that has now transformed into a remarkable 66-acre community farm outside Cardiff.
Community at the heart of a better food system
In Wales, every local authority has a Local Food Partnership, along with a variety of other community-based food projects.
They bring together people, groups, and businesses through activities like community gardens, food hubs, shared meals, and local food initiatives. Some of the many benefits of community food networks include:
- Strengthening community bonds
- Learning about sustainable eating
- Supporting diverse food traditions
- Ensuring good food does not go to waste
You can learn more about your own Local Food Partnership by visiting the Food Sense Wales page.
Benefits of community food projects
Food is increasingly being seen not just as something we consume, but as a powerful way to strengthen communities, support local businesses and care for the land. From cities to rural areas, people are reconnecting with where food comes from to reshape the local food system, so it works better for people, place and planet.
Community food networks
Reconnecting to the land that feeds us. This shift is being driven by communities, farmers, social enterprises, local authorities and voluntary organisations working together.
Community Supported Agriculture Reduce your packaging
Community supported agriculture is a partnership between a farm and a local community. Members pay up front for a share of the harvest and then receive regular food throughout the season.
Community farmers’ markets
Visiting your local farmers’ market brings lots of benefits for you, your community, and the Welsh food system. These include knowing where your food comes from, buying what’s in season and celebrating Wales’ strong food heritage.
Opportunities of urban farming
Urban farming transforms underused spaces such as allotments, vacant lots, rooftops, and community land into growing areas. From Cardiff to Caernarfon, communities are reclaiming spaces to grow food locally.
More ways to make positive change
Whether you’re curious to learn more about how every day changes to your food habits can make a big difference, or a business owner keen to make improvements that benefits both the planet and your bottom line, there are plenty more resources that you can draw from.
Rooted in Wales
