BRIDGE BUILDERS
Projects - Greenfingers

GREENFINGERS takes eager groups of youngsters to tidy the gardens of senior citizens in care homes and sheltered accommodation in Beckton, Canning Town, East Ham and Manor Park. The volunteers also manage some flower beds at Newham General Hospital.

“This is classic bridge building,” says Gowri Pillai, project organiser. “Young and old are connecting in a positive and practical way. Many of the elderly people are indigenous East Enders who have worked hard and paid taxes all their lives.

“It is pay-back time. Our youngsters – many of whom are from immigrant families – are paying tribute to the host society for building a country that has given us a safe haven and a chance to prosper and live in peace.”

Under the supervision of parents and experienced Bridge Builders, the young volunteers help keep the gardens neat and trim on a regular basis. 

The gardens are at:

John Kirk House, Pearl Close, Beckton:

St Martin's, Aldersbrook Road, Manor Park;

Ruscoe Road Sheltered Housing  Project, Ruscoe Road, Canning Town;

Newham General Hospital

GREENFINGERS is funded by a “Grassroots” grant via the Newham Voluntary Sector Consortium.

In bad weather and in winter, the volunteers turn their hand to cookery.