Charity launches fundraiser for permanent baby bank base as demand rises

A Trethomas-based charity is raising funds to secure a permanent home for its baby bank, which has supported more than 600 local families since launching in January 2025.

The Parish Trust supplies essential items – including clothing, nappies, and toiletries – to parents facing financial hardship, domestic abuse, single parenthood, or homelessness.

Demand for the service has forced the group to search for a dedicated long-term base to store and distribute supplies.

The charity works alongside health visitors, midwives, social services, and local organisations to identify families requiring emergency help. It also partners with the Vineyard Church in Cardiff to deliver items across the capital.

To secure the new venue, the Parish Trust launched a fundraising drive that has raised more than £4,500 so far. Donations made to the campaign are currently being matched pound-for-pound by the People’s Postcode Lottery.

The fundraiser, which started on Small Charity Week in June, managed to raise more than £1,000 on day one, and £4,550 in just a week, surpassing more than 70 donations.

Reverend Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO of the Parish Trust, told Caerphilly Observer: “The baby bank offers huge benefits to everyone involved, and provides much needed support for families.

“It also has a great eco-element, where baby clothes and equipment do not go to waste, and can be passed on to those who need it most,” he added.

Rev Roberts continued: “We ended our first year on more than 400 referrals, which was excellent. We are now upwards of 600 referrals, which includes frequent referrals from the NHS.

“The team involved do an outstanding job and are a huge credit to the project.”

The Baby Bank is currently looking for more volunteers to get involved and help with the project. Visit its website for more information.

Throughout the summer, the Parish Trust is also running a ‘Summer of Fun’ campaign at the Trethomas Life Centre.