A new ‘baby bank’ will launch in Nunhead’s Ivy House pub next month to help families struggling to pay for costly baby items.
The Little Village charity already has branches in Camden and Wandsworth where locals can donate new or outgrown baby clothes and other essentials to be given to families in need.
Southwark’s bank will be based in Nunhead’s community-owned pub, The Ivy House, from June 2018, after raising more than £6,000 to expand into the borough.
One of Little Village Southwark’s founders, Tessa Blunden, said: “Our research found that the child poverty rate in Southwark is 37 per cent, with some parts at over 40 per cent. This translates to more than one-in-three children in our borough living in poverty.
“As parents ourselves, we know it can be tough and isolating, but it’s unimaginably so for a parent who’s really struggling to provide for their kids, so we want to make it as easy as possible for families to support each other in a sustainable and friendly way.
“We’ve seen the amazing work done by Little Village at their existing sites and we look forward to bringing all that practical help and support to our own neighbourhood here in Southwark.
“We’ve been taken aback by all the wonderful support we have received so far. The money we raised from the crowdfunder has allowed us to get into brilliant shape for the opening. Our community has such a big heart.
“We are really excited to have our first donation session on the horizon – we can take items like cots, moses baskets and buggies, as well as clothes in great condition, and toys and books for the under-fives.”
Baby equipment will be matched with families at drop-in sessions, with the first to be held at Priory Court Tenants Hall, SE15, on June 23 from 1-4pm. Items like cots and buggies will need to have their instruction manuals and adhere to safety regulations.
“All our items of kit and clothes are gifts from one family to another, so we only accept great quality donations”, adds Tessa.
For more information, visit: littlevillagehq.org