The poverty-stricken Handsworth areas of Birmingham, UK has a high proportion of people from the Indian sub-continent, but relatively few outlets where they can buy the vegetables they are used to. However they did have other resources: expertise in growing oriental vegetables, a great deal of spare land and small grant. Ashram Acres, the gardens from derelict houses, were turned over to growing yams and other crops, additionally providing work for the unemployed and income for the community.