‘Let’s GROW’ initiative to reach 100,000 children in 2024

Helping to launch the SuperValu and GIY “Let’s GROW” initiative are students Olivia Wall (8) and Kendrick Bhekizulu (7) at Solas Chríost National School in Tallaght (Photo by Leon Farrell)

SuperValu and GIY have teamed up to promote the importance of homegrown food in schools and homes across Ireland

Horticulture

29 February 2024

SuperValu, and not-for-profit social enterprise, GIY have teamed up for the second year to bring the ‘SuperValu Let’s GROW’ programme to another 50,000 primary school children throughout Ireland this spring. This means that 100,000 primary school children will have been educated in growing food through the ‘SuperValu Let’s GROW’ initiative, having been supplied with the resources to grow their own fresh food for free at school. The partnership aims to elevate the significance of homegrown food within classrooms and households across Ireland.

The 2024 nationwide campaign was launched at Solas Chríost National School in Tallaght, Dublin, previously winning the 2023 initiative with their innovative food growing grading system. As winners, they received a €1,000 school garden from SuperValu, installed by GIY.

Participating schools will receive a ‘SuperValu Let’s GROW’ classroom pack, curated by GIY, containing essential tools for food growing and literacy education. Each 2024 pack includes seeds like cress, peas, salad leaves, beans, and sunflowers, along with 32 compostable pots, 32 magic compost discs, and a comprehensive GIY resource booklet featuring growing guides, lessons, and activities.

Additionally, selected SuperValu stores nationwide will offer GIY GROWBoxes. This expansion of the ‘Let’s GROW’ initiative aims to bring the joy and learning experience of food growing into every home.

Michael Kelly, founder and chief executive officer, GIY, said: “At a time when Ireland still has among the highest rates of childhood obesity in the EU, establishing a deeper connection with food is more important than ever. In addition, children who have grown some of their own food are more likely to try new foods at home as a result. Not only is this important for the future health of our nation but it is also an opportunity to provide children with the life skills to grow their own food and obtain a natural appreciation for fresh, seasonal, healthy foods.”

Alan McDonnell, last year’s winning teacher, Solas Chríost National School, said: “The children loved the opportunity to get their hands into the soil and when they saw food growing as a result of their efforts they were hooked. This initiative is a brilliant opportunity for children to not only learn a new skill, but also interact with each other and their teachers in a new way and learn all about the food system.”

Teachers can apply online for a free ‘SuperValu Let’s GROW’ food growing pack at www.supervaluletsgrow.ie, available while supplies last.