B&Q Larkfield

Making A Difference to Maidstone (MADM) is a community-driven charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals and families across Maidstone. Operating from our Outreach Centre Church Street, in the heart of Maidstone; we exist to bring practical help, dignity, and hope to those facing hardship, crisis, or social isolation. Our mission is simple: to meet people where they are, respond to real needs, and walk alongside them toward a more stable and hopeful future. Our service are always free. Who We Help We support a wide range of individuals within the Maidstone community, including: People experiencing homelessness or housing instability Individuals struggling with poverty or financial hardship Those facing mental health challenges People who are socially isolated or disconnected Individuals rebuilding their lives after crisis, trauma, or addiction Young people and adults needing practical life support and guidance We focus especially on those who may fall through the gaps of traditional services—people who need consistent, relational support rather than just one-off assistance. How We Find and Reach People We connect with those in need through partnerships, referrals, and our presence within the local community: 1. Referrals from Partner Organisations We work closely with: Local councils Hostels and supported housing (like Trinity Foyer) Churches and community groups Other charities and frontline services These partners refer individuals to us who would benefit from ongoing, practical support. 2. Word of Mouth Many people come to us through recommendations from others we’ve helped. Trust within the community plays a huge role in reaching those who might otherwise stay hidden. 3. Community Initiatives & Projects Through initiatives like food distribution, support programs, and volunteering opportunities, people naturally connect with us and begin building relationships. Our Approach What makes MADM different is our relational approach. We don’t just provide services—we build trust, offer consistency, and support people holistically. Whether it’s helping someone get ID, access housing, improve wellbeing, or simply feel seen and valued, we walk alongside them every step of the way.

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.

Heart of Kent Hospice cares for adults with terminal illnesses living in the Maidstone and Tonbridge & Malling areas. We offer highly-skilled care for people who have reached the end of life and help others live as fully as possible, with choice and dignity, within the limitations of their illness. We also support those who are closest to them. Our care is free of charge and available to everyone who needs it We depend on the support of our local community to give £4 out of every £5 we spend. Everything we do is defined by compassion, respect and the understanding that each individual’s needs are unique. At any one time more than 550 people are benefiting from our services which are provided free of charge to everyone. We are proud to be rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission.