Rachel & Helen from Canterbury

"There has been such a need for Acts 435, and such a range of things we can help people with."

We recently spent time in Canterbury visiting our Acts 435 partners at the Social Justice Network, part of the Diocese of Canterbury.

As we arrived at their Connecting Canterbury project, the hall was buzzing with activity. People were enjoying a warm meal and connecting with local agencies, while others accessed the clothing bank or received food parcels. It was immediately clear that this was a place of welcome, care, and practical support.

Connecting Canterbury has become a vital hub for people travelling from across the region to seek advice and help. Individuals and families arrive with a wide range of needs - from those struggling with the rising cost of living, to people who have recently arrived in the area, and others facing homelessness and uncertainty.

Helen, the lead volunteer for Connecting Canterbury, shared just how significant Acts 435 has been in meeting these needs:

“There has been such a need for Acts 435, and such a range of things we can help people with - from white goods and bicycles, to beds and bedding, and even covering the cost of courses to help people get back into work.”

What stood out most was the impact this support had, not just practically but emotionally. For many, receiving help brought a moment of relief - a powerful sense of being noticed, valued, and cared for.

Maria, an Acts 435 recipient, described it beautifully:

“It was like angels helping us - people we don’t know and can’t see, but we’re so very grateful for.”

When Maria’s phone stopped working, a simple helping hand meant she could continue caring for her older sister, who lives with a severe learning disability. What might seem like a small thing made a world of difference, lifting a heavy burden at a time of financial strain.

At Acts 435, we want to support even more churches and charities just like the Social Justice Network, who have a heart to meet the practical needs of people in their communities.

Acts 435 is a free and easy-to-use platform that can make a life-changing difference for those facing crisis and hardship.

If you’d like to partner with us or find out more, visit our partner page:
👉 www.acts435.org.uk/partner

🎥 Watch the Canterbury video here: