The Veg Box has been around for seven years and was - until recently - housed in an urban garden but is now moving premises to Manikata. We spoke to Manuela and Camille, the team at The Veg Box, which hopes to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers for healthier meals.
“The Veg Box is a hub for local organic produce that encourages the next generation of farmers,” the ladies say, emphasising that a big concern of theirs is to keep the local sector alive. “We’re trying to create interest and trust in local farmers, whilst also encouraging people to spend more time in nature.” They also chose to move to Manikata to be in closer contact with farmers, the local community and to be around green food.
The Veg Box was also one of the six finalists from around 30 projects for the Malta Social Impact Awards, a private yearly grant given to such initiatives. “While we didn’t win, we still took our experience to continue creating a space for people to connect better with nature, access the best local certified and sustainable food, and access a calming space away from urban life. We believe projects like ours can still have a great impact.”
The Veg Box, while open on Tuesdays and Fridays to sell fresh produce at Manikata, is also raising awareness about the social atmosphere around farming. “We’re trying to encourage young farmers to keep farming with the best sustainable practices, of course, and also urging people to come visit the rural area.”
Everything at The Veg Box is recycled and upcycled, and even includes a warehouse in the back where the team are taking care of salvaged furniture that they’re fixing up and selling to help them continue on this journey. They have also organised super interesting flea markets (and yes, they plan to do more), activities with the Majjistral Park just next door, and Sunday activities for all the family to enjoy.
The team also hope to continue developing this space for possible members or supporters of The Veg Box, offering it to corporate companies ready to get dirty and take part in team building exercises, outdoor activities, and even using calmer meeting zones. How cool would that be?
You can pop by The Veg Box in Manikata on Tuesdays and Fridays for fresh local produce, or any day really, but maybe give them a call first on 9944 0405 to make sure they’re there.