Sinclair & Rush is delighted to announce our charitable partnership with Communigrow, a sustainable food education charity based in East Malling, Kent. Our recent £100 donation has gone towards the development of a raised vegetable bed, helping to grow fresh produce that will not only benefit the community but also contribute to a homeless charity in Maidstone. We are honoured to have our name displayed on a sponsor plaque within their beautiful gardens, marking our commitment to sustainability and community support.
About Communigrow
Communigrow is an environmentally friendly, sustainable food education charity in East Malling teaching people how to grow chemical free food, while improving mental and physical wellbeing. Their beneficiaries include children and young people with special education needs and disabilities, local school children, young carers, vulnerable adults, bereaved people, older adults experiencing social isolation and those suffering from health conditions.
All aspects of Communigrow’s operations align with its sustainability ethos, relying on renewable energy, including solar power. They also have a beautiful yurt space heated with a log burner for the colder months, providing a welcoming environment for the various support groups.
Our Contribution and Impact
Our £100 donation has directly funded the development of raised bed number 10, which will be used to cultivate fresh vegetables. A percentage of the produce grown will be donated to a homeless charity in Maidstone and a local community food bank, meaning our contribution indirectly supports multiple charities and vulnerable communities.
Through supporting Communigrow, we are contributing to:
● Educational Outreach: The Field School provides a relaxed outdoor setting where children and young people can be themselves. Experienced tutors and absorbing activities mean that everyone, including those with anxiety or sensory needs, feels comfortable during their time spent at Communigrow.
● Community Health & Wellbeing: The charity promotes access to growing fresh, chemical-free food and encourages people to get active outdoors. Whilst acquiring valuable practical skills, learners grow in confidence and experience the mental health benefits that come with spending time in nature.
● Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship: Communigrow provides a space to learn about sustainable food growing. Rainwater is harvested, they have compostable toilets, the office, volunteer cabin, all cooking and power tools run on solar energy. In 2024 Communigrow achieved the Wilder Kent Gold Award for positive actions to create a more climate-resilient county and provide a home for wildlife. They are currently training to become a Carbon
Literate Organisation thanks to the Carbon Literacy Project, and are excited to start delivering climate education to the community.
A Visit to the Communigrow Gardens
Recently, Ellie in our Marketing team had the pleasure of visiting Communigrow’s gardens and meeting key team members, including Sheena (Operations Manager), Jane (Fundraising), and Tamsin (Community Engagement Manager). Seeing firsthand the dedication and passion of the team, along with the impact they have on the community, was an incredible experience.
Ellie's visit highlighted the diversity of activities and support services that Communigrow provides. Whether it’s workshops for schools, team-building experiences for businesses, therapeutic gardening sessions for mental wellbeing, or simply attending their bi-weekly summer workshops as an individual, there truly is something for everyone.
Ellie from our Marketing team shared: "It has been a pleasure donating to such a wonderful charity that supports not only sustainability but also helps those in the community find a purpose and create something beautiful. I really enjoy this aspect of my job—learning about and helping wonderful charities like Communigrow."
An Ongoing Partnership
As part of Sinclair & Rush’s B Corp certification journey, we are dedicated to supporting charities that align with our sustainability values. Communigrow’s dual focus on environmental responsibility and social impact makes them an ideal partner, and we look forward to finding new ways to collaborate and support their work in the future.
Jane Pegler, Fundraiser at Communigrow, commented: "As a local charity, we are so grateful for the support we receive from businesses such as Sinclair & Rush. Their donation is invaluable to Communigrow, and we look forward to working with them more in the future."
We are proud to be part of this meaningful initiative and excited to see the positive impact it brings to the community. Together, we are growing more than just vegetables—we are cultivating knowledge, well-being, and a sustainable future.
For more information about Communigrow and their initiatives, please visit their website
