Our History

Families 1st for Additional Needs was founded in 2018 to support families and vulnerable individuals facing challenges such as mental health issues, physical limitations, and learning disabilities. Initially focused on the neurodiverse community, the organisation expanded during the Covid lockdown to include a food bank as demand grew.

As requests increased, the services extended to address poverty and food waste. Additional needs were identified, such as household basics for single mothers, domestic violence victims, and refugees, alongside requests for school uniforms, children's clothing, and equipment.

Families 1st developed further services, including the North Newcastle Food Bank and a Community Shop offering affordable new and preloved goods. By late 2024, rising demand led to relocating, expanding, and rebranding into Families 1st MultiBank, now tackling broader poverty issues, including mother, baby, and household support.

MISSION


Our mission is to support families and individuals in need while reducing waste and protecting the environment. Using the Multi Bank model, we provide essential aid while ensuring that usable items are repurposed instead of sent to landfill.


"Poverty is the worst form of violence" Mahatma Ghandi                

VISION


We envision a united community where individuals work together to support one another, regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or financial background. We believe in people-powered, community-driven solutions that make life easier for everyone.


"A rising tide lifts all boats" John F. Kennedy  


ACTION


We will bring our vision to life by using donations and dedicated volunteers to provide care, support, and education for vulnerable families and individuals. Through this, we aim to foster valuable skills and connections that will extend beyond our organisation.


"Give a man a fish & feed him for a day. 

Teach him to fish & feed him for a lifetime" Lao Tzu  


Client Testimonials

"The North Newcastle foodbank at the is vital to the community because it provides essential support to individuals and families facing food insecurity, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals. Personally, I have used their service, and it has been an amazing support to me, highlighting its crucial role in offering immediate relief and stability to those in need"


- Katie McD

"Food banks should not exist! However, I am so pleased that they do. The North Newcastle Food Bank at the Brunswick Park Centre is quite literally a life saver. The help and support offered by all the team, and the donations from local businesses, are making a massive and unquestionable difference to our lives.

We are able to give our children (and ourselves) a better quality diet that would not be possible without this service. The money that we partly save on our food bill helps towards energy bills and providing our children with the things they need.

I hope that one day we will not be so reliant on the Food Bank, however until that time, I am so grateful for the support we receive."


David Mckitterick

"This is the first time I've ever had to ask for your help and I'm so totally overwhelmed with your kindness. The service you have provided has helped me find some stability & breathing space to be able to continue with my work and family life balance."



-Anonymous Client-


“I do not know what I would have done without the help of Families 1st, following discharge from a 4 month hospital stay in December 2023. Amanda came to my home within 24hrs of discharge. The service she has offered has been personalised, efficient, compassionate and caring."


- Anoymous Client


"I am forever in the debt of Families 1st for their invaluable help, support and advice. I have absolutely no doubt that Amanda and Team have played a huge part in my recovery both physically and emotionally".


-Anonymous Client-