Community Chest grant helps local baby bank support families through cost of living crisis

A much loved local baby bank that supports families across Wychbold and Droitwich has received a funding boost from our Community chest, helping it continue its vital work while launching a second site to reach even more people

Wychbold and Droitwich Baby Bank applied to our Community Chest, a funding pot for our customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting our customers; all applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on our Customer Voice Panel.  

The bank – cofounded by Rick Deller – provides essential baby and toddler items, from clothing to prams, free of charge to families with children from birth to three years old.  The not for profit project, which operates out of Dodderhill Parish Hall, runs monthly drop in sessions supporting more than 30 families each time.  Its ethos is simple, reduce waste, reuse quality items already in circulation and support local families facing financial hardship.  

Thanks to the grant, the baby bank will be able to cover a year’s worth of hall hire and storage as well as vital supplies and insurance costs.  The grant will also help fund the setup of a second drop in location in Droitwich, enabling weekly access to emergency supplies for families in need.  

Rick said: “This funding is a game changer for us. It secures the future of our Wychbold site and fast tracks the opening of our second location.  We’re passionate about helping families, particularly those escaping domestic abuse or dealing with temporary housing situations, and this support from Platform will make a huge difference.”  

In addition to distributing baby essentials, the baby bank also provides a warm, welcoming space for families to relax and connect, helping to combat loneliness in new parents.  As part of their future plans, volunteers will also receive training in mental health and suicide prevention to further support vulnerable families.  

Chris Colley, our Community Engagement Officer said: “The baby bank is a lifeline to many and we’re proud to support such a compassionate, grassroots initiative.  This is exactly the kind of community led support our Community Chest was designed to fund.”  

Our Community Chest fund is open to customers and local charities, clubs and community groups that directly benefit our communities.  It supports projects that reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and build stronger neighbourhoods.  

For more information on the Community Chest or to apply, visit www.platformhg.com.   

Photo caption : Wychbold and Droitwich Baby Bank has been awarded essential funding