 | | On allotments with Shades of Black |
The Shades of Black project enables young people in the Handsworth area to learn basic gardening skills. On Uplands allotment in Handsworth, children from local schools are taught about the soil, seed germination, digging, planting, watering, weeding. The fruits and vegetables are then harvested and distributed by the young people to elderly people in the area. How Shades of Black beganThe project was set up in the aftermath of the Handsworth riots in 1985 by a group of Afro-Caribbean women who were committed to developing the skills of young people.  | | Mrs E McGhie Belgrave (MBE) |
Shades of Black is co-ordinated by Mrs Eunice McGhie-Belgrave, who was awarded an MBE in 2002 for her services to the community. Mrs McGhie-Belgrave explains, “If the children know where their fruits and vegetables come from and help to grown them they will understand how nice it is to eat the fresh ones rather than the pre-packed." Shades of Black has been featured on BBC's 'Gardener's World and local newspapers and magazines. The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Michael, a keen gardener himself, pays the project regular visits.  | | The Lord Mayor of Birmingham |
Councillor Michael comments, "I think Shades of Black is a great project, it brings local schools together and gets them involved in gardening. If they can grow things they can eat, it also means healthier eating for them. "I fully support this venture which has been running now for six years." Shades of Black on BBC Local TVThe Shades of Black allotment project was featured on BBC Local TV. Watch the video... The HELP allotment project | | On allotments with Shades of Black |
HELP is a school curriculum allotment project set up by Shades of Black for local schools, teaching about gardening, conservation, and healthier lifestyles. Children are taught first hand experience of the changing situations of environment and weather conditions and how they effect peoples lives and crops. The produce harvested from the project is donated to the senior citizens at the harvest festival. The project receives financial assistance from funding bodies and local multi-cultural community groups The aims of Shades of Black | | On allotments with Shades of Black |
Shades of Black aim to teach children new skills, help them gain confidence, and enjoy education more. The long-term aim of the project is to cater for disadvantaged young people who have experienced problems in fitting into - especially those who have gotten into trouble with the law and others who are low achievers. Contact informationFor more information about Shades of Black project visit the website or write to: Shades of Black
c/o Uplands Allotment Association Club House
326 Oxhill Road
Handsworth
Birmingham
B21 8EX | 
