A PROJECT that produces food for homeless people on Teesside has been given a boost

The Harmony Growing Project at the Beechwood and Saltersgill Allotments in Middlesbrough is a community project that nine young people chose to support as part of their 12-week Prince’s Trust Team Programme.

After putting together a bid for funding they were awarded £2,500 from the Community Support Fund set up by Tata Steel-run UK Steel Enterprise.

The money has provided for the transport and erection of two portable units, a poly tunnel, chicken coop, bee netting and equipment including a strimmer to help them provide more organic food for homeless people and those struggling with alcohol and other addictions.

Martin Copley, of The Prince’s Trust Team at Stockton Riverside College, said: “The young people learn a lot just by presenting their bid for funding and it is also a real boost to their confidence and self esteem when they succeed and see what an effect their efforts can make to the lives of people in need.”

The unemployed young people, three from Guisborough and six from Middlesbrough, have been working hard at the allotment.

The community projects are part of the 12-week Prince’s Trust Team Programme, run by Stockton Riverside College, and designed to give 16 to 25 year olds the skills and confidence they need to find employment.

For details of UK Steel Enterprise’s support for business and the community in steel areas call 01642-777777 or visit www.uksteelenterprise.co.uk. The Prince’s Trust is at www.princes-trust.org.uk