In Doneraile, a small organic farm needs help to keep going after a devastating tragedy
Their farm was a labour of love.
Now a group of kind-hearted volunteers and friends are rowing in to help Doneraile farmer Rachel Waldock to finish her 2021 harvest following the devastating loss of her partner Aroul.
Rachel and Aroul Aarts opened Purple Squirrel Farm in 2018, growing organic fruit and vegetables in an historic walled garden within the Creagh Castle estate.
Sadly, Aroul passed away earlier this month.
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A fundraiser started by Jack Crotty has already raised more than €3,000 of its €5,000 goal (you can donate here) to hire a horticulturist to help ensure all of the couple’s work doesn’t go to waste.
“On Wednesday 7th of July we sadly heard of the passing of Aroul Aarts from Purple Squirrel Farm.” Jack explained.
“The farm is two years building as a project between Aroul and partner Rachel. As with all small beautiful things, the operation is manned by just the two of them. With the amount of kindness and compassion shown by both of them to so many, we feel it’s important to return that now at this time.”
“Given the time of year, their harvest is exploding and nobody would like to see all that hard work go to waste. With this fund we can make sure that Rachel sees the farm finish out this year, not waste any good food and hard work, and bring some nice energy to the beautiful walled garden they have brought to life.
“We will use the fund to hire a horticulturist to work three days a week to ensure a good job is done.”
Friends of the couple have also appealed for volunteers to help with weeding, packing, and delivering between now and the end of September.
To donate to the fundraiser or to volunteers your time, contact Jack Crotty using the contact button here.
