What we do
At The Kids Bank HQ, we believe that every child deserves the best possible start in life.
No family should have to choose between buying food, paying the bills or providing the essentials their child needs. That's why we're here.
Like a food bank for children, we provide practical support to families across Thurrock, Havering, Barking & Dagenham and the surrounding areas by supplying essential children's items, completely free of charge.
From baby grows and school uniform to nappies, formula, toys, books, cots and pushchairs, every item we provide helps ease financial pressure and gives children the opportunity to thrive.
The heart of our charity is simple. We take good-quality children's essentials that are no longer needed by one family and lovingly prepare them for another. Every donation is given a second life, reducing waste, protecting the environment and, most importantly, bringing comfort, dignity and hope to local families.
Alongside children's essentials, we also provide everyday hygiene products such as toiletries, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo and sanitary products - because we know it's often the little things that make the biggest difference.
How Families Can Access Support
We believe asking for help should never be something to feel embarrassed about.
Families are welcome to contact us directly through our self-referral service, or they may be referred by one of our trusted partners, including Local Authorities, NHS services, schools, Family Hubs, food banks and other charities.
To ensure our support reaches those who need it most, we may ask families making a self-referral to provide evidence of their circumstances. If this is required, our friendly team will explain everything and support you through the process.
Every referral is treated with kindness, dignity and complete confidentiality.
KidEco
KidEco is our pre-loved children's boutique at Lakeside Shopping Centre, and it's so much more than a shop.
It is our main collection hub, where families can collect their items in a welcoming, friendly environment that feels just like any other high street store. Everyone deserves to feel valued, respected and able to choose items for their children with dignity.
We also sell carefully selected surplus donated stock at affordable prices, with most items costing between £1 and £5. Every purchase helps fund our charity, allowing us to support thousands of families each year and continue reaching many more.
KidEco is also home to a soft play area for children under five - a place where little ones can play, parents can take a well-earned break and families can connect with others in their community.
Every Donation Matters
Every bag of clothes. Every toy. Every cot. Every pram.
Each donation tells a story.
What may no longer be needed by one family can become a lifeline for another.
Our supported families will always come first, and we only sell surplus donated stock once their needs have been met.
If you would prefer your donation to be given directly to a family and not sold to raise funds, simply let our team know when you donate. We will always respect your wishes.
Together, we are building a kinder community where no child has to go without the essentials they need, and where every act of generosity creates hope for another family.
