Big Sparks

We wish to supply a 4 seated cargo bike for safe family fun at our sessions with safety belts to allow families with children.

We have 2 existing cargo bikes that were purchased in 2016 and they are ever so popular but are now suffering from extreme wear and tear, not knowing them how popular the project would grow, these were bought a traditional cargos with storage boxes on the front rather than bench seating. So at present the a maximum of 2 children sit on the floor our our existing bike and hold on rather than seated and belted in. By purchasing this specialist cargo trike it will allow so many families and children, especially SEND children who need the security of being belted in and sat down, go ride with there siblings/friends to enjoy the health and mental wellbeing of being outside together as a family to experience this unique and fun form of cycling which would not normally be available to them.

This project will benefit everyone in the area of St Luke's. It will teach the residents and young people how to grow vegetables and fruit. It will provide a safe space in nature for people to enjoy being outside and be part of something special, meet new people and they will be able to eat what they have grown.

The South Essex Community Hub Outreach programme, delivered to Southend-on-Sea's care facilities, healthcare settings, and established community group venues, ensures vital support reaches those most in need, creating a safety net for the city's most vulnerable residents during the cost of living crisis, helping them to live well in the future.

Evening Foodbank & Community Support for Working Families and Students (18+) We’re proud to be piloting a nonreferral evening foodbank and community hub—designed especially for working families and students aged 18+ who are often excluded from traditional food support due to work, study, or caring responsibilities. Running one evening a week, this pilot will provide:

• Free fresh produce – including fruit, vegetables, and baked goods
• Heavily discounted pantry staples – such as tinned goods, rice, pasta, and long-life items
• No referrals or vouchers needed – just turn up when it suits you
• Community market stalls – offering pre-loved adult and children’s clothing
• Dedicated sections for workwear and second hand school uniforms to ease financial pressure
• Signposting and support – friendly volunteers on hand to listen, connect, and refer to further help if needed

This is more than a foodbank it’s a safe, welcoming space where people can access essentials with dignity, make connections, and feel supported. Many of the people we aim to reach are: In low-paid work or studying full-time Living in temporary accommodation or sofa surfing Caring for children or other family members Struggling with the impact of the cost-of-living crisis We recognise that poverty doesn’t stop at 5pm, so neither should support. With over 18,000 students in Southend, many with dependents or care responsibilities, and an increase in in-work poverty and food insecurity, this pilot responds directly to urgent local need.

This Community cooking for all project will benefit so many within the St Luke's Community. It will feed families at an affordable cost and we hope to have donations of whatever people can afford each week to continue the project in the future.