Mourning in Moulsecoomb

The news story recalls how the Christmas presents that Kids had been carving for their Mums and Dads have been burn to cinders and like these photos shows the physical damage that had been caused to the whole project. There are concerns that the insurance company will leave many costs uncovered, while now there is little shelter from the elements and the winter storms ahead. November is a mournful month…. a very mournful month in Moulsecoomb.

All of this is true. What the news does not tell is the fantastic response to this disaster. Immediately there were dozens of helpers from the local community, from schools, from local projects beginning the clear up. Small donations were coming in from supporters. The Council was been quick to offer much better fencing around the allotment site. All of these were practical acts of solidarity towards MFG. Already much of the damage from the fire has been cleared and there have been gifts of second hand kitchen equipment, tools and some wood- although much more is needed, the generosity so far has been amazing.

The MFG Blog gives a great update of this solidarity http://www.seedybusiness.org/ . Even Fridays’ organic gardening meeting www.bhogg.org (BHOGG) had a collection and £83 was raised. However lots more is still needed including wood and building materials for the volunteers. “Give us the tools and we will finish the job” is their message.

While you are looking at the MFG Blog have a look at the website. It tells you why this community project is so important. It is often working with challenged kids, who have become frustrated with the traditional education system, and other who are disadvantaged and have special needs. There are many who just who want escape to a countryside community in Moulsecoomb, to chill out or to enjoy some organic gardening.

MFG work has been widely acclaimed over the years – especially- the inspiring and perspiring work of no nonsense Warren- who has been a rock. It had become something of an alternative institution that Brighton felt positive about, even though not many of us were involved.

The situation has dramatically changed. Many of us now realise that it is time to stand up and be counted; solidarity and practical support is needed for this community gardening project that fills such an important social and educational need.

Ideas are abuzz at MFG and there is a new determination to forge a stronger structure an even better project as a new phase in the development of MFG. Out of the ashes a Phoenix is emerging, it is not mythical, it is a beautiful, it will fly as a reborn community initiative symbolic of why so many of us like living in Brighton and the values we share both in the outdoor world but also in mutual support. The mourning is over; now there is a new morning in Moulescoomb. Find out how you can join in and celebrate this new dawn. http://www.seedybusiness.org/ .

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