The article highlights Gerry Spencer's journey from homelessness and addiction to revitalization through gardening at Kew Gardens. After losing his home and battling substance abuse, Spencer found newfound purpose during the Covid lockdowns when offered a hotel stay. He participated in a program by Shepherd's Star, which encourages skills development among marginalized individuals. His connection to the historic gardens reignited his passion for gardening, and he now volunteers regularly in a community allotment, contributing to a supportive environment for individuals facing similar challenges.
During the Covid lockdowns, he was offered a hotel room in Putney. It was there that he signed up for a course through the charity Shepherd's Star and took the trip to Kew Gardens that sparked the former gardener's passions.
Jane Rogers, who was the member of Kew Gardens staff who showed him around that day, said: "We've got some people here who have been homeless or had mental health issues, or people that are still going through medical things."
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