OAG makes charity donation to the Cayman Islands’ Community Farm

On 18 November, the Office of the Auditor General (OAG or Office) handed over a cheque for CI$3,100 to Cayman Community Farm. OAG staff raised the sum as part of the final fundraising efforts to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Office.

The cheque was handed to the charity President and major donor, Chris Johnson, and key farm founder, Police Constable Fabian O’Çonnor.

Sue Winspear, Auditor General, says “I was struck by the benefits this farm offers by simply growing a variety of vegetables and fruits and giving these away free to older people in our community who really benefit from them. The time, effort and energy Fabian and Chris give to this endeavor is truly admirable and is all for the benefit of others. Our donation, whilst relatively small, will make a big difference in keeping the farm going.”

The farm started in Spring 2021 when PC O’Connor felt there was a need to grow and supply fresh produce to the underprivileged, particularly older people, in Cayman at no cost. He identified a suitable location and met the owner Mrs. Barbara Jackson who agreed a tenancy agreement of five years on a derelict building and an acre of fertile land. With the support of several business people, the farm was established as a charity and it relies heavily on donations in cash and kind to keep itself operational. The land is now fully farmed and future plans include rearing chickens and goats.

Fabian O’Connor says “I enjoy helping the community and thank the people and businesses that have supported the work of the farm so far. I thank the Office of the Auditor General for their donation and appeal for more support as we constantly need donations in kind or cash to keep going.”

Chris Johnson says “We have our biggest event of the year coming up when on Boxing Day we hold a party for Cayman’s older people and give each of them a box of vegetables and fruit to take away.  During the year our produce has helped many older people across not only on Grand Cayman but also in Cayman Brac and for the first time, Little Cayman as well.”

For any further information regarding Cayman Community Farm, contact Chris Johnson on 916 1003 or on the OAG’s 40th anniversary events contact Sue Winspear on 244 3201.

The Farm’s leaflet is attached which provides details on how to donate.