Imagine a world in which everyone has access to fresh, healthy food. A world without hunger, food shortages or environmental neglect. A world where sustainability, care for one another, and respect for Mother Earth are central values. It may seem like a utopia, but as John Lennon sang in his iconic song ‘Imagine’, every significant change begins with a dream.

At Stichting De Groentedeler, we work towards such a dream. A dream where no one lacks access to nutritious food. A dream of sharing vegetables to connect people: city to countryside, individuals to the planet we inhabit. Our mission is rooted in creating equal opportunities, and grounded in the belief that access to healthy food is a fundamental right.

 

Imagine all the people

It all starts with people. People who understand our reliance on Mother Earth. Those who take care of their physical and mental health and recognize that well-being is tied to the opportunities you’re given.

To turn our dream into reality, we bring people together. We raise awareness about the importance of nutrition, exercise, sustainable land use and community. Together, we build lives that matter. The more grounded we are, the more resilient we become.

On our farm, this principle comes to life. Here, we work with a shared goal, digging into the soil together to help over 600 clients who depend on Voedselbank Leiden every year. We often say that our garden is the best “gym” in Zoeterwoude, a place where we wonder who benefits more: the clients of De Voedselbank or the volunteers themselves. Digging into fertile soil, reflecting under an open sky, it’s as good for the soul as it is for the community.

John Lennon envisioned a world without borders. We see this as a call to break social barriers, to share what we have and to connect with one another. Whether you’re a volunteer harvesting crops, donating in support of our mission or a Voedselbank client enjoying the produce, we are all equal. This shared connection brings us closer to making our dream a reality.

But is our commitment enough? The answer is no. Too many people in this world still face a meal without fresh, nutritious ingredients.

 

Sharing all the world

As 2024 comes to an end, we face a world full of challenges. More and more people are losing their connection to themselves and the world around them. The gap between rich and poor widens and “food deserts” are emerging in cities and towns, areas where healthy food is hard to come by.

In wealthy countries like the Netherlands, supermarkets overflow with goods, yet Voedselbanken face increasing demands. In Leiden, Voedselbank clients receive supplies for four days a week, yet fresh vegetables are only included for two. This is not just a matter of food production; it’s about fair distribution.

That’s why Stichting De Groentedeler combines vegetable cultivation with raising awareness about sustainability and the importance of sharing. In 2024, we provided over 300 portions of fresh vegetables weekly during harvest season. Each portion contributed to a larger mission: creating a healthier, more sustainable world for all.

 

You may say I’m a dreamer

Dreaming means believing in a future that has yet to take shape. It’s a future we can create together by taking small steps toward significant change. Each season, we grow more vegetables, connect more people and move closer to our dream through generous donations.

Imagine a future where our organization is no longer needed. Where sharing fresh vegetables becomes second nature. Where no one goes hungry and everyone can eat healthily, in harmony with one another.

Imagine building that dream together. Fresh vegetables, no longer a luxury but a basic right. And you’ve contributed, by donating, by volunteering or simply by making conscious food choices and inspiring others to do the same. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can bring John Lennon’s words to life: “The world will live as one.” It starts here, with you, with us, with fresh vegetables for all.

Will you join us?

Last month, Stichting De Groentedeler was awarded the Elisabethcertificate, a special recognition by the Diocese of Rotterdam. This certificate is granted to initiatives that connect diaconal care with sustainability and social engagement. 

 

What is the Elisabethcertificate? 

The Elisabethcertificate represents appreciation for projects that make a difference for vulnerable people in our society while caring for our planet. It’s a mark of recognition, not only for the projects but also for the many volunteers who make these initiatives possible. The certificates are awarded every two years in line with the mission of Caritas Internationalis to promote sustainability and social solidarity.

 

What this certificate means for Stichting De Groentedeler 

This year, Stichting De Groentedeler was honored to receive the Elisabethcertificate. It’s a wonderful acknowledgment of the value of our work.

“With this certificate, it’s clear that we are being noticed,” says Peter Klapwijk, board member of Stichting De Groentedeler. “It also emphasizes the importance of continuing our activities, as there’s still so much to do. Financial support is crucial in helping us assist more people, raise awareness, and strengthen our connection to Mother Earth.”

Treasurer Jan Blok agrees, stressing the importance of consistent support. “The clearer our prospects and finances are by the end of the fiscal year, the better we can plan the number of harvest subscriptions we can purchase for Voedselbank Leiden.”

Receiving the Elisabethcertificate has already put Stichting De Groentedeler on the radar of many. “We hope that through these new connections, we can continue making a difference for the more than 600 clients who depend on Voedselbank Leiden every year,” the board members say.

 

Elisabeth van Thüringen

The name and date of the “Bread and Roses” diaconal award and the Elisabethcertificate are inspired by Elisabeth van Thüringen (1207–1231), one of the patron saints of the diocese’s cathedral in Rotterdam.

According to a famous legend, Elisabeth was carrying bread in her apron to deliver to the poor in a neighboring village when her brother-in-law confronted her. The family feared she was giving away all their possessions. When she was ordered to reveal the contents of her apron, no bread appeared, but instead, beautiful roses.

Elisabeth van Thüringen is regarded as the patron saint of charity. She is commemorated on November 17, and the prize is traditionally awarded on the Saturday preceding her feast day.

 

Building the future together 

After receiving the Elisabethcertificate, Stichting De Groentedeler continuous to connect city and countryside, while working towards a sustainable future where healthy food is accessible to everyone.

Would you like to contribute? Donate now or sign up as a volunteer!
For structural donations, read the ANBI information to learn more about the tax benefits of periodic gifts and legacies.

This year, Nora Farih is once again working on a series of unique theater performances at Theater Ins Blau in Leiden. With the theme “Rooting Together,” she aims to bring people together, connect them, raise awareness and of course, provide immense enjoyment through the stunning performances lined up. Are you curious about Nora’s vision and the upcoming edition of Verse Blik? Keep reading!

 

The start of a successful benefit!

Verse Blik became the name of the benefit event for Stichting De Groentedeler. The same beneficial of the successful performance organized in 2023. Following this success, a new edition will be organized on October 26 and 27, 2024, once again at Theater Ins Blau. Inspired by the theme Rooting Together, people will come together to enjoy beautiful performances, from dance and music to breathtaking aerial acts and spoken word.

“What I love about Stichting De Groentedeler is how it aligns with my values,” says Nora. “They provide fresh vegetables to clients of Voedselbank Leiden and other groups in need. Their vision of sustainable food production, sharing nutrients, and bridging the gap between the city and the countryside aligns with my own goals of taking care of the planet and each other. Without a planet, there’s no life, so we need to take care of both.”

Get your tickets now!

 

Health as a human right

As a medical trainee, Nora views health as a human right. Healthy food is part of that, whether you’re wealthy or part of the more vulnerable sections of society. Another important aspect of health is nature.

“When we elaborate on well-being, nature plays a crucial role. It’s unfortunate that people spend less of their time in nature, while a natural environment offers so much and it’s excellent for mental health. While living in the city, people often lose their connection with the earth. Digging into the soil together is one of the most bonding activities. Volunteers of Stichting De Groentedeler experience this every Tuesday. Together, they harvest fresh vegetables for those who need them most. By taking care of each other, we can provide everyone with the healthy food they deserve.”

 

Finding common ground

“When you look at society, there’s quite a bit of polarization,” Nora says. “There’s less and less gray area. People talk about ‘us’ and ‘them,’ but I believe there’s not enough focus on finding common ground. With the performances at Theater Ins Blau, I hope to invite everyone to look out for one another. We share this world, and you can make it more beautiful by how you perceive it. I hope people come together to enjoy, be amazed by the artists, and see how much common ground we truly share.”

 

What’s in the name, Benefietvogels?

The name Benefietvogels was born out of Nora’s fascination with birds. “I see it as a metaphor for looking at the world. The most eccentric birds are often the most beloved; people make an effort to see them. I think it would be amazing if we could welcome people who are different from us with the same sense of wonder and admiration. If we could bring out the birdwatcher in everyone, sparking curiosity to get to know one another.”

The wonder and curiosity that eccentric bird species evoke await visitors at the next benefit performance. We will announce the acts on our socials, so stay tuned and grab your ticket to secure your spot!