Weymouth Mum Gives Back After Finding Help at Local Baby Bank
In a warehouse on an industrial estate in Weymouth, volunteers are busy sorting through donated clothes, toys and baby essentials destined for families who need them most.
Among them is Kelly Fahy, a local mum who knows first-hand how vital the support can be.
Kelly began using the Family Matters Baby Bank nearly five years ago, during the height of the Covid pandemic, when her partner was furloughed and the family found themselves struggling to make ends meet with a five-month-old baby.
“We needed essentials like nappies, baby milk and clothes,” she said. “Babies also need things like teething rings and toys, and everything we needed was here. It was incredible.”
Family Matters Baby Bank, based on the Granby industrial estate, supports families across Weymouth and Portland by providing clothing, equipment and supplies for babies and children from birth to pre-school age, with additional clothing available for older children. Families can self-refer or be referred by professionals when they are facing financial difficulty.
After her family’s situation improved and her partner returned to work, Kelly felt compelled to give something back.
“I felt like I needed to help in return,” she said. “And what better way than volunteering?”
She has now been volunteering with the baby bank for five years, helping to sort donations and support other families going through similar challenges.
Family Matters is run by local people for local people and is led by former social worker Sue Reynolds. The charity operates a “click and collect” style service to ensure families can access essential items with dignity and ease.
Kelly says the baby bank plays a crucial role in the community.
“Family Matters is a vital part of the community as it helps families living in poverty,” she said. “We provide clothes, baby milk and everything from birth to five, and it’s helped so many people over the years.”
The charity welcomes donations and volunteers. Donations can be dropped off at 14 Cambridge Road, Weymouth, DT4 9TJ, and more information can be found via the Family Matters Baby Bank Facebook page.
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