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!
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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!