The Bugle is giving a shout-out to John Grant from Granties Maze in Gerringong for demonstrating some practical assistance to youth in need. John collects a huge truckload of bottles and cans every year and then donates the proceeds to help local youth. He gives the money to “A Taste of Paradise” farm near Berry.

The farm is focused on supporting disadvantaged and at-risk young people. Interacting with animals and a farm environment has proven life-changing and healing impacts on vulnerable young people.

Berry Markets where ATOP sell their produce.

A Taste of Paradise (ATOP) charity operates a day programme that incorporates Assisted Animal Therapy, One on One mentoring and Horticultural training. Children aged five to eighteen are referred to ATOP’s day programs by Government child welfare workers, welfare agencies, and individuals. Referring agencies strongly support their programmes- in many cases, the farm provides the only positive and stabilising influences in a young person’s life.

ATOP does not receive any direct funding for the work they do with youth. Like John Grant, you can also support ATOP farm by directly donating or shopping for produce at the Berry Farmers Market, which sells certified-organic free-range eggs, fruit and vegetables, and seedlings..