North Shields baby bank receives vital funding for upgrades to help kids in need

A North Tyneside baby bank which supports struggling parents amid the cost of living crisis has received a vital funding boost to upgrade its hub.

The baby bank, which is run out of St John’s Church in Percy Main to provide families in need with vital provisions such as nappies, wipes, infant clothing, and bathing and feeding essentials, is set to upgrade its heating system thanks to support from North East based Karbon Homes and electricals supplier CEF.

Reverend Lee Cleminson, Vicar at St John’s Church, said: “Every request that comes in seems to be more heartbreaking than the last, people are really struggling through this cost of living crisis. A lot of people that come to us don’t even know what they need, which is where our wonderful volunteers come in. Their guidance and advice is just as important as the items they give out.”

Since opening in 2021, the baby bank has helped nearly 600 families access the basic baby essentials they need.

Lee added: “Whatever you believe in, being introduced to Karbon two years ago was a Godly moment. Their initial funding has been key to growing this vital service and we’re incredibly grateful to them and CEF for their continued support in getting our heating system upgraded.

“The church gets incredibly cold in the winter and it’s always a worry that the clothes and essentials will get damp and that the place won’t be welcoming.

The new system will change that and make the baby bank an even more special place to come”

The funding has come through Karbon’s Unlocking Social Value fund, where CEF’s social value commitments were matched with the baby bank.

Atul Dattani, Director of Social Housing and Merchant Relationships, said: “It’s been fantastic to visit this wonderful project at St John’s, meet the team who make it all possible and see first-hand the difference it makes to those it supports.

“Projects like this one are key in our communities and CEF is very proud and privileged to be able to work with our partners, like Karbon, to offer them our support.”

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Paul Moralee, Community Investment Manager at Karbon Homes, said: “The current economic climate means the demand for services like St John’s baby bank are greater than ever and it’s been a pleasure to work with the team to ensure they can offer new parents the support they need.

“We’re thankful to CEF for their generosity, which has meant we can offer the baby bank the support it needs. Upgrading the hub is key to ensuring every child has the essential items they need to thrive.”