Abi's Footprints Baby Bank opens in Sudbury warehouse

Abi's Footprints Baby Bank, run by New Life Church, opened its doors at its new warehouse in Stour Valley Business Centre on July 19, with Jan Osbourne, Mayor of Sudbury, in attendance. 

The baby bank had been operational in its new location since June 1 when a team of volunteers completed 'Abi's BIG Build' to create a comfortable inner room within the 1,900 sq ft warehouse.

Families in need in Sudbury, Great Cornard and surrounding villages will now be able to visit the site to choose from items including clothing, buggies, highchairs and toys, as well as to access support from volunteers.

Part of the Stour Valley Business Centre warehouse (Image: Gill Soper)

Gill Soper, New Life Church coordinator, said demand has been increasing in recent years, particularly amid the cost of living crisis. 

"It is a lifeline because it eases the family budget a bit," she said. 

"There are many many families that are struggling terribly and this eases it so they can perhaps buy school uniform for another child or pay the family bills."

Ms Soper said there were a total of 283 requests made last year from 111 different families. In total the charity helped 150 children. 

Sudbury mayor Jan Osborne with Esther Allard who co-founded Abi's Footprints Baby Bank (Image: Gill Soper)

Andrew Mackie, Elisabeth Malvisi, Christine Mackie, Jan Osborne, Esther Allard and Gill Soper (Image: Gill Soper)

"We would prefer not to have the problem, obviously, and we would prefer not to be needed but that's not going to happen soon I don't think," she said. 

"We want the new site to be a lovely space for families to come in and choose for themselves in comfort."

Families will now be invited in to pick their own goods in the purpose-built warehouse, and can stay for a chat in the purpose-built inner room if they wish.

The charity has also appointed a part-time support worker for families seeking practical and emotional support at the site.