AGE Concern in Okehampton and Torridge has been awarded £500 for the development of a project which will encourage people to eat more healthily.
The scheme by the Mid Devon Healthy Eating Partnership aims to give seeds and fertilizer packs to 50 people over the age of 50 and asks them to grow vegetables and soft fruit.
Initially it is hoped that at least 200 people on low incomes will be able to buy very cheap vegetables. The produce will be available through the new centre opened in Crediton Road, Okehampton, and will also be used to help produce meals at lunch clubs in North Tawton, Whiddon Down and Chagford.
Chief officer for the local branch of Age Concern Barrie Duke said he was pleased to work with the Mid Devon Primary Care Trust in a new way that would enable older people to take an active role in the community.
He said that since Devon County Council had withdrawn its funding from the area, older people were getting a raw deal and the organisation had had no alternative income for the past five months.
'It is of tremendous importance that older people are recognised as an asset in the community and not wrongly regarded as an expensive burden,' he said.
'Instead of creating a culture of dependance where people have things done for them in the name of "caring", we hope to encourage people to help one another.'
If the scheme is successful, Mr Duke will be looking to form a group of older people who will develop the idea so that it becomes a permanent feature in the area.
Anyone who would like to know more about the scheme or who is under 50, but would like to be involved should call Barrie Duke on 01837 53409.