February
04
Author
ChristCentral Web
Origins Expansion

Origin is a community project focussed on food growing, eco-therapy and community building and has the opportunity to expand onto 12 acres of adjacent land. The current landowner is really supportive of Origin's mission and has offered to sell the land for below the market value to the community. It reflects the landowner's belief in Origin's work and his desire to see the land remain agricultural and benefit the local community rather than being turned into a residential development.

Stewardship have offered matched funding for the purchase, recognising the potential of Origin's expansion to create a financially sustainable and impactful project. They want to gauge support from other potential donors especially within our ChristCentral family of churches, to help them demonstrate the widespread backing for this initiative.

Origin is initially aiming to secure 5.5 acres, strategically located beside their existing site, to begin their expansion plans. This initial acquisition will allow them to move forward with key projects, including the rewilding initiatives to enhance biodiversity, the development of eco-pods for retreat and therapy programs, and the creation of additional growing space to expand their food production for those in need.

The expansion is crucial for Origin's long-term sustainability, enabling them to diversify their offerings, increase their impact on the community and create a model for other community-based initiatives. It will also allow them to establish a dedicated space for their expanded counselling services, providing vital mental health support through eco-therapy and horticultural activities. By working amid nature, Origins aims to offer a unique and effective approach to well-being, addressing the growing need for community-based mental health solutions. The land acquisition will not only benefit Origin's immediate projects but also create opportunities for future collaborations and partnerships, further enhancing the project's long-term impact and sustainability.

More information about Origin can be found on their website: originspace.org/nextstep

You can watch the following video which gives more details: