Boost Your Bank: Crowdfunding for Food, Clothes, and Baby Banks

At Crowdfunder, we’re passionate about supporting community-driven initiatives that provide vital services to those in need. Whether you’re running a food bank, baby bank, clothes bank, or any other community project, your work is making a huge difference. But to keep serving those who rely on you, sustainable funding is crucial. That’s where Crowdfunder can help.

Why Crowdfund?

Crowdfunding isn’t just about raising money—it’s about rallying your community, expanding your reach, and gaining support from people who believe in your cause. By starting a Crowdfunder, you have the potential to raise significant funds, attract volunteers, and build long-term relationships with supporters.

Even better, Crowdfunder’s +Extra funding offers opportunities for additional support. Eligible projects can receive match funding from our partners, giving your campaign a significant boost. Imagine doubling the impact of every donation!

Real-Life Success Stories

Need some inspiration? Here are just a few examples of community projects that have successfully used Crowdfunder to grow their impact:

Bow Food Bank

Bow Food Bank (London) was established in 2014 by local residents and community groups to provide emergency food supplies to people in Tower Hamlets.

Now one of the largest independent food banks in the UK, it operates with over 400 volunteers to support the growing demand due to the cost of living crisis.In 2023 alone, Bow Food Bank distributed more than 37,000 parcels of food to over 6,000 guests, including 24,000 parcels for children.

Their Crowdfunder campaign raised £57,000, with half coming from +Extra funding. This vital support has allowed Bow Food Bank not only to continue providing food aid but also to move toward sustainable solutions. They are training their volunteers to help guests access long-term support and move away from food insecurity.

The funds raised will further enable Bow Food Bank to address the underlying causes of food insecurity and support their guests in becoming more self-sufficient.

“Bow Food Bank is a community solution to food insecurity. Whether you give your time, expertise, or money, you’re joining a team who deeply care about their neighbours and community.”

Stronger Roots

MUD CIC (Manchester Urban Diggers), based at Platt Fields Market Garden, has become a hub for community connection, food growing, and wildlife conservation.

For the past seven years, they’ve provided free meals for thousands of people and created a space where volunteers from across Greater Manchester can come together to grow food, share knowledge, and build bonds.

One of MUD’s standout initiatives is the Strong Roots programme, which brings asylum seekers, refugees, and local residents together through weekly sessions. These gatherings offer participants an opportunity to connect, share stories, and celebrate different cultures through food and cooking. For refugees living in isolation, Strong Roots offers a sense of purpose and belonging.

MUD’s Crowdfunder campaign raised nearly £57,000, with half of the funds coming from +Extra funding. These donations have allowed MUD to run Strong Roots sessions, cover participants’ travel expenses, provide warm lunches, and continue their work in building stronger roots for the refugee community.

Mama to Mama

Mama to Mama (Thanet) is the first and only baby bank in Thanet, providing pre-loved clothing, hygiene products, and essential items for children under five living in poverty.

Through referrals from support workers, Mama to Mama reaches the most vulnerable households in one of the UK’s most disadvantaged areas. They support not only those living in poverty but also families affected by mental health issues, domestic abuse, human trafficking, asylum seekers, refugees, care leavers, and people who are homeless or in temporary accommodation.

Their mission is to ensure every newborn baby has the essentials they need for the best start in life, while also giving their caregivers the hope and confidence to face their challenges.

Mama to Mama’s Crowdfunder raised £25,000 last winter, with half coming from +Extra funding. These funds helped them expand their operations, but they are now fundraising again to meet growing demand. Their current goals include expanding their warehouse to accept more donations, creating a volunteer training programme with a delivery service, and developing a monthly giving patron scheme to ensure sustainability.

“We want to be able to say YES to every call we receive,” they explain, highlighting the urgent need for continued support.

Hackney Migrant Centre

Hackney Migrant Centre (London) has been a vital lifeline for migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers for 17 years. In the face of growing hostility toward migrants, including rising racist and Islamophobic sentiments, HMC stands as a beacon of solidarity.

Their mission is to support and advocate for the rights of vulnerable migrants, offering a safe space and a crucial support network in an increasingly hostile environment.

HMC provides essential legal advice through a team of specialist lawyers and caseworkers, supported by over 60 dedicated volunteers. Their services address critical issues like immigration status, housing insecurity, and destitution, empowering migrants to build stable and fulfilling lives in the UK. In a time when access to legal aid is extremely limited, HMC offers life-changing support for those who would otherwise be left without options.

Every Wednesday, they host a gathering where 40-60 visitors enjoy a nutritious meal, participate in wellbeing activities, and receive tailored support. Volunteers help with everything from GP registration to foodbank vouchers, ensuring that each guest’s immediate needs are met.

Hackney Migrant Centre’s Crowdfunder campaign raised over £100,000, with nearly £50,000 of that coming from match funding through Aviva. These funds have allowed HMC to continue offering their wide range of services, supporting those who are most at risk and fostering a community where migrants can thrive.

“We are more than just a service; we’re a community,” HMC explains, highlighting the importance of providing not only practical support but also a space for connection and hope.

How to Get Started

Starting a crowdfunding campaign with us is simple. You’ll be guided through the steps, from creating a compelling story to spreading the word on social media and beyond. Here’s how you can get started today:

1. Create Your Project: Outline your goals, tell your story, and let people know how their donations will make a difference.
2. Rally Your Supporters: Reach out to your community, volunteers, and stakeholders—every share, like, and donation counts.
3. Access +Extra Funding: Check if your project qualifies for match funding and boost your total with extra support.

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Boost Your Bank, Today!

Your community relies on you, and with the right funding, you can do even more. Whether you’re helping families, individuals, or the broader community, Crowdfunder is here to support your mission. If you’re ready to boost your bank, visit crowdfunder.co.uk/boost-your-bank and start your crowdfunding journey today!

Let’s continue making a difference, together.