A MUCH-LOVED baby bank supporting families across Droitwich has received a funding boost from a local housing association.
Wychbold and Droitwich Baby Bank has successfully applied to Platform Housing’s Community Chest – a funding pot for Platform customers and local charities.
The bank – co-founded by Wychavon councillor Rick Deller in an independent capacity – 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 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, community engagement officer at Platform Housing Group, 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.”
Visit www.platformhg.com and www.facebook.com/people/Wychbold-Droitwich-Baby-Bank/100089895582936/ for more information.
