A Crowborough based charity committed to gifting clothing and essential items to local children in need, has received The King’s Award for Voluntary Service at a formal presentation.
Family2Family was presented with the prestigious award on behalf of the King by the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, Andrew Blackman, at a special ceremony at Hendall Manor Barns.
The prestigious award is the highest recognition given to volunteer groups across the UK. The ceremony and afternoon-tea brought together volunteers, trustees, and distinguished guests to celebrate the exceptional contributions made by the organisation.
Founded in 2018 as Baby2Baby, Family2Family has grown over the years to support children from 0 – 16 years through the redistribution of clothing and essential items to those in need across East Sussex.
Whilst the physical items provide an immediate relief to the family’s circumstances, the care in which the items are presented ensures recipients feel they have received a gift in their time of need, which can boost well being and mental health.
Over the past eight years, its volunteers have contributed thousands of hours to support local families through its core service and delivering initiatives such as Bags4School, Gifts4Kids, Beds4Kids and the recently launched Family2Family Boutique where anyone can access beautifully presented baby clothing bundles for an optional donation to the charity.
Founder, Hannah Powell, said: “It’s a huge honour to see the charity receive this recognition. Our work would simply not be possible without the commitment of our volunteers. We know how precious our time is and it’s always been incredible to see people choosing to spend theirs to give back to those who need us.
“The ceremony was a warm and uplifting day; a real celebration of community and friendships made through a shared commitment to Family2Family and what it stands for.”
The Lord-Lieutenant praised the charity’s impact. Mr Blackman said: “I’ve visited Family2Family and I know it’s an organisation at the heart of your community, and what you do is to help your neighbours, to help those who are most in need in your community. It couldn’t be an organisation more worthy of acknowledgment and thanks.”
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service recognises outstanding work by local volunteer groups to benefit their communities. Equivalent to an MBE, it highlights organisations that demonstrate excellence in volunteering and community support.
As part of the award, Family2Family received a certificate signed by His Majesty The King and a commemorative crystal. The charity founders will also be attending a royal garden party later this spring.
For more information about Family2Family and its work, visit www.family2family.org.uk