Growkids Clothes Bank has officially reopened at the Charles Burrell Centre, offering a bigger and better space for local families in need of support.
A project of Thetford Vineyard Church, Growkids began in 2020 in a small cupboard at CBC, operating as a ‘click and collect’ service during the pandemic. Thanks to the generosity of the local community, the shelves were quickly stocked, enabling volunteers to support a wide range of families – including domestic abuse survivors, young mums and foster carers.
Following the easing of Covid restrictions, Growkids moved into a shop-front premises on the Abbey Estate. For the next two and a half years, it provided more than just pre-loved clothing. The space offered free refreshments, a play area and a warm, welcoming environment where families could build connections and friendships. Volunteers also ran courses on mental health, parenting and money management – helping to tackle the root causes of poverty and support families in the long term.
The Abbey Estate venue closed unexpectedly earlier this year due to roof issues, but with the help of Thetford Vineyard Church, CBC and volunteers including a team from Virgin Media, Growkids has now transformed the old science lab at CBC into a purpose-built new home. The refreshed space includes sofas, a coffee bar and a larger play area for visiting families.
Growkids is now welcoming both returning and new clients, as well as anyone interested in volunteering.
Clothes Bank sessions are open to all on Tuesdays from 12pm to 3pm and Thursdays from 9:30am to 12:30pm, at The Vineyard Centre, Blue Zone, Charles Burrell Centre.
Find out more by following @growkidsthetford on social media or emailing growkids@thetfordvineyard.church
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