Chester children’s charity KidsBank has launched a £1 million appeal to secure the future of its work supporting thousands of children living in poverty across Cheshire West, Flintshire, and Ellesmere Port.

Since 2019, KidsBank has gifted more than 400,000 essential items – including clothing, nappies, toiletries, toys, books, Christmas gifts, and school uniforms – to help children thrive.

In 2024 alone, the charity supported more than 3,000 children and expects to gift more than 150,000 items in 2025.

The team at the charity say demand for its services continues to rise. One in three children in the UK now live in poverty, while several neighbourhoods in Cheshire West are among the most deprived in England.

That means securing the charity’s future and having a permanent home in Chester has never been more vital.

From its base on Garden Lane, KidsBank has become a true community asset – powered by local volunteers, donors, fundraisers, and partner organisations. What was once the Loves of Chester garage has been transformed into a Hub where referrals are prepared that are a lifeline for thousands of families across the region.

Dee Denton, CEO of KidsBank Chester, said:

“Every donation we receive at KidsBank is a gift from one family to another, and we are so proud of what our community has helped us build here.

“Every gift we give has a real impact on a child’s life, and by securing our KidsBank home, we’ll be protecting that legacy – ensuring we can continue supporting local children for as long as we are needed.”

The appeal will fund the purchase of the Loves Garage site, and its refurbishment to store donations and bring their School Uniform and Christmas projects back to the Chester site.

This means children can receive help all year-round, volunteers can work more efficiently, and the charity can continue gifting items without pause or disruption.

On her recent visit to KidsBank Chester to learn of the upcoming appeal, Chester North and Neston MP Sam Dixon said:

“KidsBank’s dedication to alleviating childhood poverty is truly inspiring and I’m proud to support their ‘A Gift for Forever’ appeal.

“Securing the future of KidsBank means securing hope, dignity, and opportunity for thousands of children who need it most, for years to come.”

The purchase of the site will ensure every penny goes into its projects and help to fund its work into the future supporting children who need it most.

The appeal, titled, ‘A Gift for Forever – Where Every Donation Builds a Brighter Tomorrow’ invites individuals, businesses, and community groups to donate, fundraise, or spread the word to ensure KidsBank can continue supporting children every year for generations to come.

To support the appeal or plan your fundraising event visit https://kidsbankchester.com/agiftforforever or contact Dee Denton, CEO at dee@kidsbankchester.com or 07592 509347.

Donations can be made to the appeal directly via the following link: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/agiftforforever

Donations can also be made via the QR code below: