The Welsh Government has announced a £700,000 investment to help
Cwtch Mawr, a multibank in Swansea, expand its reach and offer
free essential items to even more people in need.
Cwtch Mawr distributes surplus goods like cleaning products,
toiletries, and furniture, working with over 60 referral partners
such as social workers, health professionals, and charities.
Since launching in March last year, it has already supported over
120,000 people - three times its first-year target of 40,000.
This extra funding will allow Cwtch Mawr to extend its services
helping families and individuals.
Cwtch Mawr is run by Swansea-based charity Faith in Families, and
its Chief Executive, Cherrie Bija, said: "We are
delighted that the Welsh Government is investing in our
expansion. With their support, we have already provided nearly
half a million essential items, to over 100 smaller vital
charities in Swansea, to distribute to those in need in 2024
alone. From quilts for children sleeping in bare covers to air
fryers helping families manage utility bills, our work has
transformed lives across Swansea.
"This investment will enable us to grow and reach even more
families and individuals, increase our networks, ensuring
everyone has access to the essentials they need to survive,
treating people with dignity and respect. Together, we can
continue to make a profound impact on our community, by utilising
surplus goods to help save our planet, push poverty away and
caring for our people”
Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, , said: “Rising living
costs mean more families are struggling to afford the basics.
We're determined to do all we can to prevent people from going
into poverty and targeting help at those who need it the most and
putting money back in people's pockets. Between 2022 and 2025
this support has been worth almost £5bn. This funding for Cwtch
Mawr is another step in supporting those who are most affected by
the cost-of-living crisis.
“Cwtch Mawr is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when
charities, businesses, and government work together. Expanding
its reach means even more people will get the help they need,
right when they need it most.
“By reusing unsold items, it's not only supporting families but
also cutting waste and promoting a circular economy.”
The Welsh Government previously provided £125,000 to help
establish the multibank, and this latest funding highlights its
ongoing commitment to addressing poverty and supporting
innovative community-led initiatives.
Notes to editors
Cwtch Mawr is managed by Faith in Families, with support from
co-founders former Prime Minister and Amazon. Key partnerships
include Swansea County Council, Pobl Housing Association,
Moondance Foundation, and Swansea Bay University Health Board.
