Last week marked the planting of the two new community orchards developed and planted by young people as part of the innovative ‘Mind Your Melon’ youth mental health project.
The orchards, located at the St Vincent de Paul Centre and the new community garden in Rathmullan and with Lárchomhairle Paróiste Ghleanncholmcille in Glencolmcille, now form part of a series of community orchards planted over the last three years. The concept for the community orchards was designed as part of a programme of events and activities under the Mind Your Melon project. The two orchards were planted this December with the active involvement of Transition Year (TY) students , support from local community and voluntary organisations and in collaboration with OURganic Gardens.
Through this initiative, young people explored themes around connecting with others and the benefits of being active in nature benefiting mental health and well-being which is an essential part of a person’s health. Incorporating positive mental health and well-being practices during adolescence helps develop healthy and resilient adults.
Mind Your Melon was created by Donegal-based mental health charity Connect Mental Health, in partnership with Jigsaw Donegal and Foróige, and is supported by Donegal Local Development CLG (DLDC). The project aims to promote awareness and action for youth mental health in local communities.
Ciaran McLoone, Chairperson of Connect Mental Health, said: “Congratulations to the young people that have created these wonderful spaces. Working together, they have created a space to benefit their local community and developed a deeper understanding of the positive impact that being active in nature can have on your mental health and well-being.”
Martin McDevitt, Community Development Manager with DLDC, added: “DLDC, through the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP), was delighted to coordinate the development of these two additional community orchards for the Mind Your Melon collaboration. This unique and sustainable initiative creates a lasting legacy for the communities of Rathmullan and Glencolmcille. These new orchards complement the existing ones in Cnoc Fola, Falcarragh, Pettigo, and Stranorlar, developed under the Mind Your Melon project over the last two years.”
