LOFA Column – Making a difference together

M ak i n g a di f ffe re n c e t o g e t h e r

Gina Hinde, Marketing Manager, LOFA

At LOFA we are always looking at ways to help our members and support our industry. Every year we donate a proportion of LOFA funds to charity and going forward we want to ensure that people within our industry benefit from these funds.

LOFA have always been fervent supporters of Greenfingers. This charity needs no introduction from me because, as we all know, it creates amazing and inspiring gardens for children who spend time in hospices. This year our donation will go towards a garden at Derian House, Lancashire, where garden designer Chris Foreshaw will be transforming a tired courtyard garden. For 2023 LOFA wanted to partner with more charities that had a similar connection to our industry. After much research we found two, Perennial and Thrive. These partnerships come at a crucial time for both organisations, as they look to further their important work in helping people in need and supporting those who work in horticulture. Perennial, the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Society, is an ideal fit. Founded in 1839, it helps those that work with plants, trees or grass who are facing overwhelming challenges, for example, an unexpected crisis or life changing event including retirement. Support also helps with bereavement, money worries, ill health, homelessness, redundancy and family breakdown. No problem is too big or too small and they never turn anyone away. For 2023 LOFA will be supporting Perennial’s Promote Health Campaign which provides

Left: Gina with free health checks to offer

Phil Swainston, a glimpse into overall wellPerennial’s Corporate Partnership Manager.

Below: Thrive in action. being. These checks will be offered in a LOFA sponsored health kiosk, located at industry events up and down the country throughout the year. If you are visiting, we urge you to give the booth a try, it could make all the difference.

The other organisation we are working with is Thrive. It believes gardening can bring positive change in people’s lives, and it’s not wrong. Through its therapeutic gardening and horticulture programmes, Thrive has proven that gardening can have a profound impact on physical and mental well-being. LOFA are committed to supporting its work each year. We are also helping with its first Big Give Christmas Challenge from 29 November - 6 December where it aims to double the money LOFA has donated.

LOFA are excited to partner with these charities that work tirelessly to improve the lives of those within and connected to our industry. We hope by working together, we can increase awareness of these great causes while raising valuable funds so they can continue their important work. We are proud to support their efforts and are looking forward to making a difference together. • perennial.org.uk • thrive.org.uk • greenfingerscharity.org.uk • lofa.co.uk or email info@lofa.com