GREENFINGERED Southamptoners are invited to a Spring Plant Sale at an artisan bakery in the city this month to fundraise for a charity championing the isolated and vulnerable (May 2026).
The backyard of CommuniBakes at 21, St James Road in Shirley is the venue for the fifth annual event in aid of Communicare on Saturday, May 16, 10am to 12pm.
CommuniBakes Baker, Kieren Jones says: “We’re delighted to once again host Communicare’s annual Spring Plant Sale in our backyard. The event has gone from strength to strength and has been really success in previous years, so we’re hoping lots of people come along on the day this year to buy plants too. The bakery will also be open and we’ll be serving sweet and savoury breakfast, brunch and lunch items as well as teas, coffees and cold drinks too. With all proceeds to the charity.”
CommuniBakes is a commercial enterprise that supports Communicare financially. All the money raised from the event will go towards helping with the charity’s work with vulnerable and isolated people in Southampton.
Kieren continues: “There will be a great selection of plants available, with all money raised going to Communicare, but we’re also still keen to hear from gardeners who can donate plants for the volunteers and team to sell. If anyone can grow on or pot up a few surplus house or outdoor plants, it would be hugely appreciated. Plant donations can be dropped off here from 8.30am on the morning of the event.”
Communicare is a friendly, neighbourhood charity, which provides services that enrich the lives of isolated people in and around Southampton.
The organisation’s Manager, Annie Clewlow, explains: “We’re thrilled that CommuniBakes is once again the venue for our fifth annual Spring Plant Sale.
“We’re really looking forward to seeing the plants people kindly bring along for us to sell, as well as meeting everyone who comes along on the day to browse, buy and support us.
“With the current economic climate, financial support from fundraising events like this is needed now more than ever. Every penny raised is put to good use, helping to improve people’s lives.
“There is extensive research showing how isolation and a lack of social connection can affect both physical and mental wellbeing, so our work is about helping people of all ages truly live their best lives, rather than simply exist.”
Communicare’s services are staffed by its devoted volunteers, known as Communiteers, who give their time freely.
The charity is currently supporting more than 750 individuals/families through tasks including, befriending, transport for appointments and assistance with shopping and always needs more donations and volunteers to help with its work.
The services it provides are free to users, although beneficiaries are invited to donate if they can, and Communiteers are offered expenses.
Kieren adds: “Here at CommuniBakes we support Communicare’s work; all our profits are donated to the charity, so you can enjoy a cake, or take home a loaf, and know you’re helping people living nearby at the same time. You can now pre-order your baked goodies including bread from us in advance to collect on the day too. Please call us on 07467 399231, Tuesday to Saturday, during normal opening hours or hello@communibakes.co.uk.”
Communicare’s Spring Plant Sale at CommuniBakes, 21, St James Road, Shirley, Southampton, is on Saturday, May 16 from 10am until 12pm.
Plant donations should only be dropped at the bakery from 8.30am on the day of the event.
To find out more, please visit www.communibakes.co.uk.
