Underwear urgently needed as our baby banks run low

At Little Village, London’s largest network of baby banks, we’re calling on our communities to help provide a basic but often overlooked necessity for young children – new underwear.

Throughout June, our “Little Undies” appeal is encouraging donations of pants, socks and tights for children under five growing up in poverty across the capital.

Across our baby banks in Camden, Wembley, Tooting and Wandsworth, our teams support hundreds of families each week who are unable to afford essentials for their children. It’s not just larger items like cots and prams – we’re also seeing real need for smaller, everyday basics like underwear.

With the cost of living stretching household budgets, many parents are forced to make impossible choices between essentials, such as putting food on the table or replacing worn-out clothing. For families in temporary accommodation, often with limited washing facilities, this challenge is even greater.

Barb Chewings, Little Village’s Head of Baby Bank Operations, says: “We often talk about big challenges like housing, food and heating – but it’s everyday essentials that can quietly cause the most distress. We meet parents who feel deep guilt and anxiety because they’re struggling to afford the basics. Pants, socks and tights might seem small, but they’re fundamental to a child’s comfort.”

Our volunteers see this impact first-hand: “It’s heartbreaking to send out a bundle knowing it’s not as complete as it should be. Sometimes we have to leave underwear out because we’ve simply run out – and those are the hardest moments.”

A mum we’ve supported told us: “Everything is so expensive, you’re constantly making hard choices. The support from Little Village meant I knew my child had what they needed and gave me one less thing to worry about.”

Demand for these items continues to outstrip supply, and we include underwear in every bundle wherever possible. Over the past year, we’ve distributed 23,845 pairs of pants, 47,005 pairs of socks and 13,782 pairs of tights, while supporting more families than ever before – a 27% increase compared to 2024.

We’re asking individuals, schools, workplaces and community groups to get involved by donating new underwear or contributing funds to help us respond quickly to demand.

How you can help:

• Donate new, unused underwear, socks or tights to your local Little Village baby bank
• Donate funds to help us purchase essential items
• Organise a collection at your workplace, school or community group