AS it moves into its second decade, the Bishopston-based charity Aid Box Community is reflecting on one of the busiest months since it began.
A team of volunteers has worked tirelessly in recent weeks to pack up and move the charity’s shop and welcome hub for refugees and asylum seekers into a new base in St Bart’s Hall in Sommerville Road.
The community’s efforts meant the free shop was able to reopen on September 22. Its opening hours are Monday to Friday 10.30am to 3.30pm.
Now the charity is planning a showcase event on October 8 (3-7pm) to highlight what it has achieved over the past ten years, what it offers now – and its plans for the future.
Founder Ingrid McIntosh said the support from local people had been outstanding.
“From the moment we got the keys, a remarkable team of volunteers showed up week after week, giving their time, energy, and heart to pack, move, and set up our new free shop. The generosity, kindness, and encouragement we’ve received from the local community has lifted us every step of the way.
“In a time when connection and compassion feel more important than ever, this move has reminded us just how powerful collective care can be.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who helped make this move happen—from donors and companies who gifted vanloads of essentials, to the build crew, carpenters, legal supporters, and our staff and trustees who spent three years searching for the right space. Your support has meant the world to us.”
The charity is still looking for volunteers, item donations and financial contributions. It will soon be advertising new trustee and staff roles for those who’d like to join our team more formally.
The updated donations drop-off times are Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays: 9am–5pm | Wednesdays & Thursdays: 8am–6pm.
ABC is also preparing for two fundraisers: abseiling down Uphill Quarry, Weston-super-Mare on Friday October 11, and its popular Refutrees Christmas trees initiative.
Find out more at www.aidboxcommunity.co.uk
