Community Orchards launched in Donegal as part of mental health initiative

Pettigo Youth Group 2022/23 has officially launched one of two community orchards, developed and planted by young people as part of ‘Mind your Melon’ youth mental health festival. Siobhan McGowan has supplied photos for the recent launch in Pettigo.

The concept for the community orchards was developed as part of the programme of events and activities for Mind your Melon, which took place from October to December 2022. The orchards, located at Pobal Eascarragh, Falcarragh and at the Termon Complex in Pettigo, were planted in December.

The full programme of events has reached 1,650 young people in the county to date.
The orchards were planted over two days by young people from TY and youth groups with the support of local community centre staff and local volunteers.

They consist of apple, pear, plum and cherry trees, planted in conjunction with OURganic Gardens, an outdoor educational garden focused on food growing and re-connection.

As part of the initiative young people explored themes around connecting with others and the benefits being active in nature can have for your mental health and wellbeing.

Mind your Melon was created by Donegal mental health charity Connect Mental Health in partnership with Jigsaw Donegal, Foróige and Donegal Local Development Company.

Speaking at the launch in Pettigo on Saturday, Ciaran McLoone, Connect Mental Health Chairperson said: “Congratulations to the young people that have created these wonderful spaces. Working together, they have created a space to benefit their local community and developed a deeper understanding of the positive impact that being active in nature can have on your mental health and wellbeing.”

Margaret Larkin, Community Development Manager with Donegal Local Development added: “DLDC were delighted to coordinate the development of the two community orchards for the Mind Your Melon collaboration. This is a unique and sustainable initiative creating a legacy for the communities of Falcarragh and Pettigo.”

Bill Vaughan from Mental Health Ireland spoke about the benefits of this initiative and encouraged the community to visit the Mind your Melon website that contains inspirational videos and tips to look after your mental health and wellbeing.

He said: “Any projects that can bring young people together for the greater good of our environment is fantastic. Mindyourmelon.ie continues to help young people to learn more about their mental health and how to look after it. Initiatives like this help to promote resilience and empathy within our communities.”

Mental health is an essential part of a person’s health. Incorporating positive mental health and well-being practices during adolescence helps promote the development of healthy and resilient adults.

Mind your Melon is supported by Donegal Local Development Company and the Mental Health Ireland Grant Scheme for Community and Voluntary Groups.