Cwtch Baby bank receives £70,000 National Lottery boost to support families across south east Wales

With many families feeling the effects of the cost-of-living crisis, thanks to National Lottery players, some families across south east Wales are getting the support they need.

Cwtch Baby Bank successfully applied for a grant of £76,393 to continue their work. The charity provides essential equipment and clothing for vulnerable families with newborn babies and toddlers under the age of two years. Launched in April 2016, the charity has grown year-on-year, and to date, has helped over 4,000 families. Referrals come from midwives, health visitors, social workers and other agencies supporting vulnerable families in south east Wales.

The charity is aware that not all vulnerable families are currently supported and will therefore continue to improve their reach, by forging links with local charities, such as food banks, housing associations, and refugee centres.

Eiddwen Thomas, Trustee Cwtch Baby Bank spoke about how the funding will help the charity:
“Cwtch Baby Bank will use the funding to help relieve poverty and hardship among families in south east Wales by providing pre-loved clothes and essential equipment needed to care for, and keep safe babies and children.”

“We support a range of vulnerable individuals and families, who do not have the means to buy essential items and clothing for their children, including those affected by poverty, unemployment, domestic abuse, homelessness, human trafficking and those seeking asylum. The grant will help us to continue to work to meet more families affected by the cost-of-living crisis.”

John Rose, Wales Director at The National Lottery Community Fund, congratulated the charity on their award saying:
“Increases in the cost of living and the impact of the pandemic are still felt by many, that’s why projects like these are a vital part of communities. National Lottery players raise over £30 million each week for good causes like these throughout the UK. The Fund is dedicated to supporting projects that bring people together to support their communities. During a time when people and communities are struggling with increasing costs our message to community groups is that we are here for you and we will be flexible in our funding.”

This is just one of 90 groups receiving a share of over five million pounds (£5,106,496) this month. To read the full list please see the attached document.