Little Village, the largest network of baby banks in London, is asking people to volunteer at its warehouse in Wandsworth to help struggling families.
The charity helps thousands of families every year by providing them with essential items, such as prams, clothes, toys, and cots.
But more help is needed as demand is very high during winter – driven by rising living costs and the pressures of the festive season.
A survey conducted by the charity found that almost one in four parents (23 per cent) is concerned about not being able to buy Christmas gifts or decorations for their children.
Additionally, 81 per cent of parents said that they are worried about being unable to buy winter clothing such as coats, boots, or jumpers for their children.
Calleigh-Marie Lawrence, director of volunteering at Little Village, said: “Across London, thousands of parents are struggling to afford even the basics for their babies and turn to us for help – warm clothes, nappies, a safe cot, a buggy to get around.”
“The beauty of our ‘one-off’ volunteering sessions is that you can get involved without signing up to a regular schedule.
“In just a few hours, you can help sort, pack, and prepare clothes, toys, and essentials for families facing incredibly tough times.”
One volunteer, who helps at the charity, said: “Volunteering at Little Village is incredibly rewarding.
“You know that every pram you clean or bundle of clothes you pack will go directly to a family who really needs it.
“It’s a wonderful way to give something back and be part of a caring community.”
Across the UK, 4.5 million children – one in three – are living in poverty, and in London alone, 700,000 children are growing up in difficult times.
The one-off volunteer sessions are being held at Little Village’s Wandsworth warehouse on:
– Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 6pm to 9pm – Saturdays, from 10am to 3pm
