Swindon Ukrainian Community "Putting Down Roots" on Second Anniversary of Ukraine War
Over 400 Ukrainians have now settled in Swindon since the start of the war in Ukraine, thanks to the Homes for Ukraine scheme. A support group, ‘Swindon Welcomes Ukraine’, was created by volunteers to support that new community. Their projects have ranged from organising extra English classes to helping Ukrainians find jobs, and they are now opening a Ukrainian community garden so that they can grow their own produce.
Named "Putting Down Roots,” the event will take place on Friday 23rd February at St Philips allotment in Upper Stratton, Swindon. It will also mark two years since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine. It allows the Ukrainian community in Swindon to honour their heritage whilst contributing positively to their local environment.
The official garden opening will bring together key community volunteers who will be involved in maintaining the site. The group will also be celebrating the 18 month extension of visa's for Ukrainians living in the UK, announced over the weekend, as well as commemorating all those who have lost their lives in the first two years of the war.
Vice-Chair of Swindon Welcomes Ukraine, Kris Talikowski said, “The community growing garden will serve as a physical representation of the strength of the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity. Through the act of planting and nurturing their own produce, the community aims to cultivate a space of tranquility and growth, fostering connections between Ukrainians, their host families and the residents of Swindon.”
The land, kindly secured through Stratton St Margaret Parish Council, is a 250sqm plot which has been transformed over recent weeks by local volunteers and tradespeople. The garden will feature 12 large growing beds, a sunflower garden, a poly tunnel, where they will seed plants, and also a programme of local talks from experts to teach key growing skills.
“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to come together as a community on this significant day," said Tanya Tymofeienko, a committee member of the Swindon Welcomes Ukraine group. "Through 'Putting Down Roots,' we honour the memory of those lost in the Ukraine war whilst reaffirming our commitment to building a brighter future for ourselves and future generations."
All members of the Swindon community are invited to join the "Putting Down Roots" event on Friday 23rd February at Plot 12B, St Philips Allotment, Upper Stratton from 8am-10am.