The Alexandra Rose Charity is a well-established British charity, which was founded in 1912 by Queen Alexandra. The charity provides Rose Vouchers to low-income families in order to afford healthy fruits and vegetables.
Alexandra was originally a Princess of Denmark and maintained strong ties to Denmark throughout her life. She learned of a priest selling silk roses in Denmark to raise money for different causes and decided to import the same to Britain. However, instead of selling silk flowers, she decided to sell real roses. When the charity was first started, the funds raised were distributed across London to help people in need to receive proper healthcare. Every year, a day in June is chosen as Alexandra Rose Day, and roses are sold to raise funds. Traditionally, the Prime Minister is the first person to buy a rose.
The charity has continually operated for 107 years and is as strong as it ever was. Although it has supported a number of causes throughout its lifetime, the charity now focuses on helping families in need to receive local fruits and vegetables in order to have a healthy diet.
The project currently helps families in four different London boroughs (Southwark, Hackney, Hammersmith & Fulham, and Lambeth), Barnsley, and Liverpool. Families receive Rose Vouchers that they can then exchange for produce with local grocers. One of the substantial benefits of this project is that not only are children and their families receiving the food that they need, local farmers and markets are also supported.
Upon founding the non-profit, Queen Alexandra served as President of the Alexandra Rose Charity, and different members of the Royal Family have served as Royal President throughout the years. Currently, Princess Alexandra, the Honourable Lady Ogilvy, serves as Royal President. It is particularly fitting as a great-granddaughter of Queen Alexandra.
On 9 July 2019, Princess Alexandra will be attending a reception for the Alexandra Rose Charity at Buckingham Palace. Those invited will undoubtedly have a memorable day with Her Royal Highness and know that their work does not go unnoticed or unappreciated.
