Waterford’s GIY has been forced to place programme staff on temporary layoff due to what’s been described as a ‘serious funding crisis’.

G.I.Y., also known as Grow It Yourself, was founded in 2008 by Michael Kelly from Waterford.

Their mission statement states that the food system is broken and in G.I.Y. they believe in nurturing a real connection to where food comes from and they’re on a mission to inspire a global movement of food growers.

Their website states they have reached 6 million people so far through activities and programs, especially in relation to schools.

The Grow HQ first opened its doors to customers in 2016 opposite University Hospital Waterford.

In a statement to WLR, founder Michael Kelly said: “The part of GIY that runs our national programmes in schools etc. is 100% reliant on grants and philanthropy is facing a serious funding crisis and we’ve had to put most of our team there on temporary lay off. We are exploring all our options to restructure and ensure that work can continue. From a Grow HQ perspective, it’s business as usual – the cafe, shop, GIY Farm, veg box are all operating as normal. We are very grateful to the people of Waterford for their ongoing support and encourage them as always to come out and support independent, local cafes and shops that do such important work for the local economy.’