Crowdfunding campaign launched for community kitchen

Down to Earth has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise cash for a community kitchen at its Electric Daisy venue.

The organisation, which is spearheading nature-based regeneration in Derby city centre, is looking to raise £25,000 to create the kitchen at the Bold Lane venue.

It has now set up a crowdfunding campaign, with donations being match funded by the Mortgage Advice Bureau Foundation.

According to Down to Earth, the community kitchen will enable a new phase of programming to address challenges in Derby like food access, community isolation, mental health and wellbeing.

Key initiatives will include a Community Grow(th) Plan, where members, guided by Down to Earth’s experts, will plan, sow, grow and harvest their own food.

Seed-to-Plate Workshops will facilitate the complete food journey, teaching participants about sustainable growing, food supply chains and practical cooking skills.

Down to Earth has said that if it reaches its crowdfunder goals it will also host free Seasonal Community Feasts to celebrate the harvests.

Jamie Quince-Starkey, founder and chief executive of Down to Earth, said: “We’re planning on doing some incredibly exciting things, but we need the support of our community to deliver it.

“Having a community kitchen will elevate Electric Daisy’s offer to another level, allowing us to cook produce from the garden – from pot to plate.

“We have some great rewards on donations of £25 or more – including free pizza and vibes merch!”

To support the crowdfunding campaign, click here.