Thanet baby bank Mama to Mama has been left devastated after its workplace and warehouse in Margate were severely flooded in last Friday’s storm.
Vital baby equipment including cots, high chairs, prams, mattresses and products have been destroyed.
The charity, which supports struggling families across Thanet and East Kent with essential baby and toddler items, estimates losses of at least £10,000.
As demand for support continues to rise, Mama to Mama is now urgently calling for help with donations of replacement equipment, financial sponsorship, and help to restore its vital service.
Jayne Furniss, Founder and CEO of Mama to Mama, said: “This is absolutely heartbreaking for the families who count on us — especially now, with the cost-of-living soaring.
“So many of the items we’ve lost were packed and ready for parents in desperate need. We are doing everything we can to keep supporting local babies, children, and their families — but we can’t do it alone.
“We’re urgently asking our community and local businesses to come together, stand with us, and help rebuild what’s been taken. Every bit of support will make a real difference to a family who’s struggling right now.”
Mama to Mama is urgently seeking:
- Donations of new or excellent-condition baby equipment (especially cots, prams, highchairs and hygiene products)
- Financial contributions to help cover replacement costs
- Local business sponsorship and partnerships to support recovery
Donations can be dropped off by appointment by contacting [email protected] or made online at https://www.mama-to-mama.co.uk/donate-money.
Mama to Mama provides essential pre-loved items to vulnerable pregnant women, caregivers and children under 5, who are living in poverty.
It was founded by isle residents Jayne Furniss and Jessica Ross in 2021 and has been delivering care boxes to new mums ever since.
Each box contains a minimum of 25 newborn and 0-3 month clothing items, a blanket / sleep suit, muslin and comforter or soft toy. They also add a pack of biodegradable wipes, organic cotton wool pads and pregnancy /new baby toiletry products.
In 2023-24, the charity supported 128 families in Thanet. By 2026, it aims to increase that figure by 40%.
Surely that’s what insurance is for?