A COMMUNITY project for young people has launched a new grassroots project which aims to help families grow food.

Youth Connections' new Growing Places project is aimed at encouraging people to try their hand at producing their own fruit and veg.

The initiative is part of their Food for Thought Programme, a scheme which aims to tackle food poverty in the Larkfield area.

Bruce Newlands, from Inverclyde Shed, joined local volunteers and the estate's housing association to plant fruit trees and vegetables on a new plot.

Alex Stevens, chief executive of Youth Connections, said: "The fruit and vegetables can be distributed later in the year through our community fridges, located in St Andrew's and Aileymill primary schools and Larkfield Children's Centre, as well as the Youth Connections building in Burns Square.

"We have community fridges at the schools and nursery and one here which provides snacks for out youth club on Thursdays."

Bruce, lead gardener, said: "I am absolutely delighted to be working with Youth Connections and to volunteer over this year's growing season."

Greenock Telegraph: Youth Connections Growing Places

The growing project is being funded by The Roberston Trust, Corra Foundation, Awards for All scheme and Inverclyde Council.

The group is also setting up a life skills cafe to support young people who are on the autistic spectrum.

Chief executive Alex says it will help to boost young people social and employability in a safe space where they feel at ease.

He told the Telegraph: "This is an extension of groups we run on Monday and Wednesdayto support young people on the autistic spectrum get skills for work.

"We are trying to help them develop social and employability skills, although they may be acutely skilled in other ways."

Alex says a partnership approach is being taken to tackle poverty in the Larkfield area and that it is having an impact.

Other organisations who have linked up include Larkfield Housing Association, Chance to Flourish, Youth Connections and CVSI.