Meanwood Valley Urban Farm launched a fundraising appeal last week to make sure that its gates can re-open after the Covid 19 crisis which has led to an "unprecedented" loss in income.

There are fears that the farm, which operates as a charity, will not be able to re-open when the world-wide pandemic is over.

When operating fully, the farm hosts around 50 sessions for 20 vulnerable adults based around animal care, horticulture and conservation, on average 150 children a week take part in a range of outdoor activities and its market garden supplies fresh vegetables and fruit to local people, cafes and restaurants.

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm cares for a number of animals.

The farm provides employment to 14 members of staff and in addition to its trustees has a small team of volunteers who help to maintain the site.

The restrictions in place due to the coronavirus outbreak mean only staff and volunteers can access the site and the income has dropped.

Despite originally planning to celebrate its 40th anniversary this year, the charity is asking the people of Leeds to donate as part of its recently launched crowdfunding campaign.

The money raised will go towards keeping vital animal care going at the Farm during closure and help to compensate for lost revenue throughout the crisis - and so far £18, 500 has been raised.

Spring time at Meanwood Valley Urban Farm.

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm's CEO, Adam Ogilvie, said: “We have been staggered by the response so far from people across Leeds who, despite these difficult times, have given donations to the farm. The comments that people have left just show how fondly Meanwood Farm is held and we just want to say thank you very much. We’ve launched a fundraising appeal to help us get through this crisis and to make sure we’re still here for the community for many years to come.”

Factfile

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is a charity established in 1980 to provide a 'taste of the country' within the city boundaries. It provides educational services to disadvantaged young people and adults and offers environmental education to primary school children.

It is a working farm with a variety of farm animals, amenity and market gardens and a range of natural habitats.

Well-wishers can donate to the appeal at https://justgiving.com/campaign/save-meanwood-farm

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm "staggered" by response to funding appeal