Lamont Farm makes fresh plea to community amid ongoing financial struggles

Lamont Farm Project in Erskine has issued an urgent plea for help as rising costs and falling donations push the beloved community farm closer to closure.

In a heartfelt post shared online, volunteers at the farm say they are once again relying on the generosity of the public to keep the gates open.

Last year, a community fundraising effort helped save the farm from financial collapse - but this year, they warn, the situation is just as critical.

"Without help, the future of the farm is in serious jeopardy and we won’t be able to stay open for much longer," the team wrote.

"It costs around £50,000 a year to keep the farm afloat and that’s with everyone being volunteers."

Founded in 1977, Lamont Farm is Scotland’s first city farm and is home to a wide range of animals including donkeys, goats, llamas, and chickens.

Many of the animals are elderly or rescued and depend on the farm for safety and care.

Jack the goat is now 34, the donkeys are in their late 20s, and the farm’s much-loved llamas have reached old age.

Volunteers say they are particularly concerned about what will happen to these animals if the farm is forced to close.

Footfall to the farm has dropped in recent months, leading to a dramatic fall in donations.

Despite efforts to apply for grants and organise fundraisers, the income simply hasn’t kept up with the rising costs of food, bedding, vet care, and utilities.

"Donations are low, and costs are higher than they’ve ever been," the team said.

Lamont Farm is asking anyone who can to consider donating - no matter how small the amount. A GoFundMe page has been set up, and donations can also be made via PayPal or directly to the farm’s bank account.

Volunteers hope the farm’s role in the local community hasn’t been forgotten.

"We hope that the community hasn’t outgrown the farm and that we are still able to be a valuable part of it," the post reads.

Those wishing to help can visit the GoFundMe page at: https://gofund.me/0686acad or donate via PayPal at [email protected].

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