A Grovedale aged care group will bring more greenery into its residents’ lives after receiving a grant to improve its existing kitchen garden.
Barwon Health’s Alan David Lodge in Grovedale received $30,000 through the second round of the Public Sector Residential Aged Care Services and Community Kitchen Garden initiative.
Chief executive Fiona Diver said gardening offered many health benefits and played a “vital role” in the wellbeing of people in aged care.
“Gardens provide them with a peaceful environment to enjoy nature, engage in therapeutic activities, and connect with one another,” she said.
“We are incredibly grateful for this generous $30,000 grant, which will allow us to refresh our garden spaces with new planters, pots, soil, and essential tools.
“This upgrade will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the mental and emotional health of our residents, creating spaces where they can thrive.”
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney said she was glad to help deliver initiatives that enhanced the “quality-of-care older Victorians deserve”.
“These kitchen garden projects are helping our older community members stay active, social, and engaged while continuing to receive the aged care support they need,” she said.
“Victoria is one of the only states in the country providing a public option for aged care…and it’s wonderful to see local aged care services like Alan David Lodge benefiting from these grants.”
