The transformed garden ready for planting. Islamic Help has been at the forefront of helping im...

Islamic Help has been at the forefront of helping improve the quality of life for the community of Balsall Heath in Birmingham, where our headquarters are located.

Working with partners on one of these projects, our staff and volunteers helped transform a “jungle eyesore” into a community garden for local residents.

Years of neglect had left the land, known as the Pepper Garden and located behind residences in Cheddar Road, overgrown with weeds and waste. A joint initiative involving Islamic Help, the Balsall Heath Forum and the Accord Housing Group transformed it into a site ripe for planting vegetables and fruits. As well as the garden, part of the site was shaped into an adventure playground for youngsters.

The Lord Mayor of Birmingham Councillor Shafique Shah planted a symbolic tree at the official opening of the Pepper Garden in August 2014. The ceremony was attended by local residents and dignitaries and included an awards ceremony for the volunteers.

“It’s wonderful not only to see such a beautiful open space which was once unused and uncared for, but the inspiration and dedication of the young volunteers who worked so hard to make it possible,” said the Lord Mayor.

The project was backed by the Civic Foundhry and supported by Islamic Help, Hope team 2014, Right Foot First and St Pauls Development Trust.

An Islamic Help spokesman said: “We already support the Balsall Heath Forum on projects such as the hamper pack distribution to elderly people in the area, and working together on projects like the Pepper Garden can only further engender the community spirit that we all share.”