From Curiosity to Connection: Discovering the monthly NEV Crop Swap!
The only thing I knew when I turned up to my first Crop Swap was that I hadn't brought any 'crops'. I pictured people bartering vegetables by the sackful or haggling over lettuces...I couldn't have been more wrong, or more happily surprised!
What I discovered was a friendly group of people making small offerings of almost anything food related to anyone with an interest, and most importantly, everyone was sharing their knowledge of selfsufficiency. This really is the heart of the gathering.
"It's about food sharing, and community food resilience," said Claire Speedy, one of the group's coordinators, who got the idea to start the Valley Crop Swap from attending the Ōtepoti Food Futures Hui in November last year. "It's about sharing what you have left over, from seeds to baking or kitchen equipment, and giving your knowledge and experience freely to create a stronger community."
This theme was evident within a minute of starting. After a short welcome and an introduction from all, tables were laid with goods from attendees and everyone was encouraged to mindfully peruse what was on offer, and ask questions of those giving it away. I instantly heard experienced advice on growing dahlias and instructions on making sourdough bread from the starters on offer. Leftover eggs were donated, with some shared stories of raising chickens. Everyone was helpful and there was a real desire to include all those who came along—shout out to the young girl who brought awesome painted rocks to give away!
Importantly, people took home what was left over from their donation to give away another day. Leftover food was donated to the Community Pantry and the whole room was back to the way it started.
If you have a few flower bulbs, more rosemary than you can handle, or even some cookbooks to offer, bring them along on the last Sunday of every month, share your knowledge with others, and find some treasure for your garden or kitchen.
I'm going again!
The monthly NEV Crop Swap takes place at 3pm on the last Sunday of the month in the Fred Hollows Room at the Valley Project, 262 North Road, North East Valley.
