The Acorn Group

To reduce food waste and repurpose surplus while enhancing unity in our community. Charlie's Angels Kitchens collect surplus food that might otherwise be thrown away, using it to create delicious, nutritious meals and snacks for the conscious consumer. Provided on a pay as you feel basis the surplus is repurposed and available to all, you can pay our suggested price or use some of our 'Charlie's change', and enjoy the food knowing you are taking a step towards reducing food waste. A community interest company we are not for profit, volunteers provide the work force and equipment is purchased from your contributions or lent to us by generous supporters.

Our mission is the relief of poverty among the street homeless/rough sleepers and homeless through the provision of items to support basic needs such as sleeping bags, ground sheets, survival sheets, blankets, clothing, food and toiletries. We also aim to improve the individual’s welfare through our welfare and advocacy team.We endeavour to prevent harm to health by referring to emergency and similar services as and when necessary throughout Hastings, Bexhill, St. Leonards, Eastbourne and Lewes. We provide a satellite food bank delivering in excess of 200 food bags a week to rough sleepers and the vulnerably housed homeless. We also have a baby bank and a Vegan bank plus our Homestart scheme, set up to provide those in emergency and temporary accommodation who often have nothing, not even a kettle. We provide these items. We work closely with our local Women's refuges and emergency accommodation hostels and provide books and toys to the children.

We are an active church at the heart of our local community, committed to serving those around us in practical and meaningful ways. Our Foodbank currently supports over 100 individuals each week, including some vulnerable families and individuals. Every Tuesday, we distribute bags containing essential ambient food and personal hygiene products, alongside an increasing range of fresh food items to promote healthier living. This year marks our third season of running a Warm Hub. Every Wednesday lunchtime, we provide free homemade soup, rolls, dessert, and drinks. This initiative not only offers nutritious meals—often made from food that would otherwise go to waste—but also provides a welcoming space for local people to connect, especially during the colder months. The Warm Hub has grown in popularity, with visitor numbers steadily increasing. For young people, we run two key initiatives during term time. On alternate Fridays, we host a Youth Café for ages 10–18, offering free food, drinks, crafts, and games in a safe, supportive environment after school. We also run a fortnightly Youth Club for the same age group, with themed evenings such as animal encounters, movie nights, sports, drama, crafts, and shared meals. All of these initiatives are offered on a non-profit basis. At present, the church fully funds them, but in order to continue—and expand—these vital community services, we are actively seeking additional support and partnerships.