Leeds Baby Bank charity which started in front rooms and a pub is now celebrating its fourth birthday

Leeds Baby Bank started out in 2017 initially to help multiple birth families, but expanded beyond the expectations of the founders and is now an essential part of how the city tackles child poverty as the the inquality gap grows and it gets more and more referrals asking for help, with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic having further impact.

Around 25 bundles are sent out to families each week from the baby bank's busy city centre unit, provided free of cost by the St John's Centre. The place is a hub of activity accepting pre-loved donations, checking each item to make sure it is clean and of good quality, then sorting referral packages for families in need that are growing in numbers each week.

In 2020, Leeds Baby Bank supported more than 1100 families, which means that up to 4000 people benefitted from its work.

Will Munton, charity manager for Leeds Baby Bank said: "The reality is children in our city are sleeping on the floor, some unable to keep warm, and there are hundreds of people who need a helping hand. We are glad we are here and can help in these increasingly difficult times.

"We have the city behind us who donate quality preloved and new items, and are grateful also for the financial support of grants, the public, and our council which helps us keep going. It’s amazing how the charity has grown, and the support from the city has been overwhelmingly positive so far."

Looking ahead into this year, Leeds Baby Bank has ambitious plans and says it will focus on improving operations, acquiring a fully electric vehicle to deliver essential items across the city,

improving systems and launching new projects to offer more long term support for families.

Mr Munton added: "For the charity to face the future we really need the city behind us, whether that means people donating preloved items or, for those who can afford it, making regular financial donations. People can visit our website, LeedsBabyBank.org to sign up to give regular donations and for just £20 per month could purchase a mattress for a child in need.”

Support the YEP and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news and the latest on Leeds United, With a digital subscription, you see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe