Crisis & Essential Support in Canterbury & East Kent

Provides safe, secure, and supported housing specifically for UK Armed Forces veterans in the Kent area. Their services include tailored support plans, mental health referrals, and assistance with life skills and employment, aimed at empowering veterans to achieve stability and independence. The accommodation offered consists of furnished rooms in shared houses, with support workers available for regular check-ins and assistance. The organization addresses unique challenges faced by veterans, such as homelessness, PTSD, and mental health issues, fostering a supportive community environment.

Provides supported accommodation for vulnerable and homeless adults, ensuring they have access to quality housing and essential support services to help them achieve a better future.

Provides a community fridge where surplus food is shared with local residents, aiming to reduce food waste and combat food insecurity. This volunteer-run initiative serves individuals and families in the Folkestone area, offering free access to food for those in need. The project fosters a sense of community and sustainability by encouraging local participation and collaboration. Additionally, it raises awareness about food waste and promotes responsible consumption practices.

Provides support for individuals and groups in Kent to develop community-led housing projects that focus on affordable and sustainable living solutions. They empower local residents to establish cooperative housing initiatives, fostering stronger community ties and addressing housing needs. Their services include expert advice from Technical Advisors, assistance in finding land and finance, and opportunities for collaboration with other housing groups. The organization operates across various communities in Kent, promoting a vision of community-led housing where residents have control over their living environments.

Offers residential housing and personalized support for families in need, focusing on creating a safe and nurturing environment for growth. They provide tailored support plans and guidance from professionals to empower parents in developing essential life skills. The organization operates in Dover, Kent, and aims to help families transition towards independent living while fostering a sense of community and belonging. Unique programs include individualized support packages that cater to the specific needs and backgrounds of each family.

Operates a food bank that has distributed over a quarter of a million meals in the last year, serving local families in need. The organization relies on a dedicated team of over 200 volunteers who collect surplus food from supermarkets and distribute it to those struggling in the community. In addition to food support, they run a community café and a free shop, providing essential resources and a welcoming space for vulnerable individuals. Their commitment to putting people first is evident in their multi-award-winning approach to community support.

Odd Socks Folkestone CIC organizes free community events in Folkestone, focusing on clothing swaps to promote inclusivity and sustainability. They help individuals facing changes in their wardrobe needs, such as health changes, parenting, or shifts in personal style, by providing a space to donate, swap, or take clothes at no cost. Their activities are designed to foster community engagement and support environmental sustainability.

Provides affordable groceries and essential items to individuals and families facing financial difficulties through the Sandwich Pantry located at the Jubilee Centre. Members pay a weekly subscription to access fresh food and staple items, which helps alleviate food poverty and reduce food waste within the local community. The centre also serves as a community hub, hosting various activities and services aimed at improving the quality of life for residents in Sandwich and surrounding areas. Their approach fosters community engagement and support for those in need, ensuring that everyone has access to necessary resources.

Delivers accessible, trauma-informed courses, therapy, and community projects aimed at reducing harm and building resilience for women, families, and teen girls facing relationship breakdown or domestic abuse. Their unique approach combines gentle movement, mindfulness, and creativity to offer whole-person support that encourages growth and well-being. Operating primarily in Kent, they collaborate with schools and community groups to provide meaningful, engaging support that fosters healthy relationships. Their Connect with Respect community programme, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, exemplifies their commitment to empowering individuals and creating a safe community environment.

Offers a range of community-focused events aimed at fostering social inclusion and engagement in Margate. Activities include live music performances, open decks nights for vinyl enthusiasts, and community meals utilizing surplus ingredients to promote sustainability. They provide safe spaces for men to discuss their experiences and build supportive networks. The organization welcomes individuals of all skill levels and backgrounds, ensuring accessibility through donation-based entry and pay-what-you-want food options.

Audax Supported Living Community Interest Company provides education and semi-independent living services for children and young people, focusing on enhancing their life skills and independence. The organization aims to support vulnerable individuals in achieving their personal development goals within a safe and nurturing environment.

Bethel Family International Ministry CIC provides community support and outreach services aimed at enhancing the well-being of families and individuals in the Canterbury area. They focus on helping those in need, including vulnerable groups and marginalized communities, through various programs and initiatives.

Breached CIC advocates for veterans and victims of moral injury and ethical abuse related to biological, radiological, chemical, and nuclear incidents. The organization provides support, resources, and a platform for those affected to share their experiences and seek justice.

Brook Sparkle Project CIC is a community-focused social enterprise based in Herne Bay that empowers individuals and families through education and support services. They provide essential resources, including food, toiletries, and sanitary products, to those facing challenges such as period poverty and financial hardship.

Carolina Community CIC is dedicated to enhancing the local community in Herne Bay through various initiatives, including food support and community engagement programs. They primarily assist residents in need, fostering a sense of belonging and improving overall well-being.

Food is Care CIC is dedicated to addressing food poverty among vulnerable communities, particularly single-parent families living in council estates. Through advocacy, community engagement, and awareness campaigns, they aim to amplify the voices of those affected by hunger and ensure their needs are heard by local authorities.

Revitalises historic buildings and community assets in Ramsgate to create vibrant work and community spaces, fostering employment and enhancing local pride. The CIC engages residents and local stakeholders to ensure community involvement in regeneration efforts, focusing on the creative sector. Their projects include redeveloping Art Deco shelters and transforming the Old Wine Warehouse into a hub for enterprise and entertainment. By leveraging Ramsgate's unique heritage, they aim to provide new opportunities for creative expression and collaboration within the community.

HJG Housing C.I.C. is dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions and support services for individuals and families in need within the Whitstable community. By focusing on sustainable living and community development, they aim to enhance the quality of life for their beneficiaries.

Provides low-priced food and household goods through two MiCommunity shops in Margate, open to everyone in the Thanet community. The initiative aims to support individuals and families facing food poverty, regardless of their membership or benefits status. The shops are subsidised by community donations, allowing them to offer essential items at reduced prices. They also encourage community involvement through volunteering and donations to sustain their operations.

Napier Barracks Drop-In Centre CIC provides essential support services, including workshops and community activities, aimed at assisting refugees and asylum seekers in the Sandgate area. The centre fosters a welcoming environment where individuals can access resources, build connections, and receive guidance during their transition.

Strength2StrengthUK CIC is a Community Interest Company based in Dover that specializes in supporting survivors of domestic abuse. With over 25 years of experience, they provide essential safety education and resources to women and girls in the Dover district.

Provides training, coaching, and mentoring aimed at empowering women, girls, and non-binary individuals affected by domestic abuse. Their person-centred approach focuses on economic empowerment, safety, leadership, and overall wellbeing. They offer tailored one-on-one support and programs designed to build confidence and promote long-term economic independence. Operating in Folkestone, they aim to support 2,000 individuals by their 10th anniversary through innovative and accessible services.