A baby bank in North Belfast has faced an 80% increase in demand in the past year due to the rising cost of living. The team at Blossoms - which is based on the Somerton Road - said they're now helping more families than ever.
The service has received a "steady stream" of people in need coming from referrals from community services and walk-ins. Originally beginning in 2019 from a space in Belfast city centre, the team say demand has gone through the roof since moving into the north of the city last August.
The group say they are trying their best to help as many families as possible with toiletries and clothing for their children.
Read more: North Belfast baby bank on helping over 100 families in past year
"It's been bonkers, we've been absolutely flat out - the need is mighty," Cheryl Graham from Blossoms told Belfast Live.
"I now believe the eat or heat crisis is so real, and it's very sad. I consider myself very privileged that I work and so does my husband, but I'm also blessed I can pass on stuff and be in a position to help others.
"We look after mums with babies up to the age of one. We can supply clothing in 0-3 months, 3-6, 6-9 and 9-12.
"My ethos is if I wouldn't put it on my child, it's not going on your child. If it's stained or anything it gets thrown out, because these wee mummies don't have much, and I'm not going to insult them.
"For a newborn baby we'll provide a hamper a few weeks before the due date which would have baby grows, vests, nappies, wipes, vests, a towel and a wee teddy. We would also give the mum a bag which would be essentials she would need for hospital but we also include some face wash, wipes, hand cream, a face mask - just to give a wee pick me up."
The team, which is operated by a group of dedicated volunteers, also work in association with the Ballysillan Baby Bank to supply clothing for older age groups. They also provide referrals for local food banks to ensure those who need their services get all the support they can.
Cheryl said: "We can refer to North Belfast Foodbank and also the Skegoneill Community Food Bank around the corner, and our referrals have gone through the roof recently.
"We had maybe one or two people coming in a week when we were in the city centre, then when we came here the poverty hit us. I feel we have a duty to do something, and we are doing something to help one family at a time.
"If every person did one thing, what a difference it would make to everyone."
On Saturday, July 2, Blossoms are having a fundraising event at the Somerton Hub at 44 Somerton Road. Stalls with toys, cakes, buns, plants, items crafted by their volunteers, and tea and coffee will be available.
The team have urged if anyone feels like they are in need of their services, they should get in touch through their Facebook page. They're dedicated to helping families from right across the city.
"There is no judgement here," Cheryl said. "People can get in touch with us on Facebook. We would encourage them to explain to us what they need, and we can help them further on.
"Donations are gratefully welcomed, we're especially in need of clothing and toiletries. We have a lot of stuff here at the moment, but it doesn't stay for long."
If you can't make it to their fundraising event, you can donate through JustGiving by clicking here. You can find out more about Blossoms Belfast and get in touch through their Facebook page here.
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