Four years of support for De GroenteDeler from the PCI HH Petrus en Paulus Parochie!

From 2024 to 2027, the Parochial Caritas Institution (PCI) of the HH Petrus en Paulus Parochie in Leiden and surroundings has pledged a donation of €1,000 per year. This wonderful contribution will ensure an additional continuity in providing fresh vegetables to the clients of Voedselbank Leiden and the continuance of our activities. In a conversation with board member Wilbert van Erp and his wife Els, we spoke about this wonderful step towards providing everyone with healthy food.

 

The connection between faith and social engagement

“Traditionally, the funds of the parish and the caritas institution are kept separate. What comes in at the PCI is not intended for repairs and maintenance but to help people in need,” explains Wilbert.

The PCI operates parallel to the parish. Here, Wilbert and Els, along with others, work to make an active contribution to society using donations from parishioners. This is done not only by providing financial help to parishioners and others in need but also by supporting social projects like De Groentedeler.

 

Fresh vegetables and agricultural farming

During their visit at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei, Wilbert and Els were amazed. “It’s a beautiful place where we walked around with admiration,” says Els. “We know how much work goes into growing and harvesting these vegetables,” adds Wilbert. “We also grow some of our own vegetables at Buitenplaats Berbice in Voorschoten, although the quantities are, of course, not comparable to what is harvested at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei.”

Just like the parish board, the PCI board also emphasizes how De Groentedeler combines multiple elements from the encyclical. De Groentedeler takes care of both the planet and the people in need. “The more people we can engage to contribute, both financially and with their time, the more we can help those who are struggling,” says Wilbert.

 

Conscious living

Wilbert and Els, along with the PCI and the Laudato Sí working group, are committed to increasing awareness around environmental issues. Through the Laudato Sí newspaper, which is published several times a year, the working group provides tips on living environmentally conscious and minimizing harm to nature. They highlight how small steps can make a difference as long as you stay aware of everything you do. They also promote healthy living and sustainable agriculture throughout the year.

In line, the working group contributes to organizing film evenings where the documentary Onder het Maaiveld will be shown in two churches in Leiden. The working group continues to keep Stichting De Groentedeler in the spotlight among parishioners.

 

Join the free screening of Onder het Maaiveld

Want to learn more about Laudato Sí, Stichting De Groentedeler, and the life beneath our feet? Join us for the free screenings of the documentary Onder het Maaiveld on September 19 or 23, 2024.