Hastings is home to numerous charitable organizations dedicated to improving the lives of its residents and fostering a sense of community. From supporting vulnerable individuals to empowering local groups, these charities address a wide range of social, educational, and economic challenges. Organizations like Hastings Voluntary Action, Education Futures Trust, HARC, the Association of Carers, and the Salvation Army play pivotal roles in enhancing well-being, offering vital resources, and promoting collaboration. Their efforts ensure a brighter future for the Hastings community.
Hastings Voluntary Action (HVA) is a charitable organization based in Hastings, England, dedicated to supporting the local community. Founded in 1983, HVA promotes voluntary and community action by connecting individuals, groups, and organizations to create positive change. The charity provides essential resources, training, and guidance to empower local groups and volunteers, enabling them to address social challenges effectively.
HVA plays a vital role in fostering collaboration, advocating for community needs, and enhancing the well-being of residents in Hastings. Its work spans a wide range of initiatives, including volunteer recruitment, funding advice, and capacity-building support for organizations. By acting as a hub for community development, HVA ensures that grassroots efforts are well-coordinated and impactful. Through its website and activities, it serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to make a difference in Hastings.
The Education Futures Trust (EFT) is a charity based in Hastings, England, dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, families, and vulnerable adults in the area. Established in 2012, EFT provides innovative support and learning opportunities tailored to address social, emotional, and educational barriers.
The charity focuses on empowering disadvantaged communities through programs like forest schools, conservation projects, and specialized courses in outdoor learning, literacy, and wellbeing. EFT also offers parenting workshops and one-on-one coaching for individuals with complex needs. A team of keyworkers supports children struggling in school and fosters positive family dynamics, aiming to build resilience and improve life outcomes.
Hastings Advice & Representation Centre (HARC) is a nonprofit organization based in St Leonards-on-Sea, England, dedicated to supporting vulnerable individuals in the Hastings area. Founded over 40 years ago, HARC specializes in providing expert welfare benefits advice, helping clients navigate complex systems like Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Employment Support Allowance. The organization addresses issues such as benefit denials, appeals, and disability-related claims.
HARC also collaborates with local groups like food banks, the Hastings & Rother MS Society, and the Energise Sussex Coast project to extend its services, offering holistic support that includes budgeting and energy advice. Known for its compassionate approach, HARC has helped thousands of individuals secure essential support, transforming lives and alleviating poverty. It also runs charity shops that support its funding and provide work experience opportunities.
The Association of Carers is a non-profit organization based in Hastings, England, dedicated to supporting unpaid carers. Through a range of free services, they aim to improve the well-being of those who care for others, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to manage their responsibilities. Their initiatives include respite care, emotional support, and practical advice tailored to the unique challenges carers face.
Volunteers play a key role in delivering these services, fostering a sense of community and mutual assistance. By prioritizing the mental and physical health of carers, the Association of Carers helps them maintain balance in their lives while effectively supporting their loved ones.
The Salvation Army in Hastings, located at St. Andrew’s Square, serves as both a church and a community-focused charity. It provides a wide range of support services to local residents, including assistance for vulnerable families, food and baby banks, and help for pet owners through a pet food bank.
The Hastings branch also runs Employment Plus, which supports individuals with CV writing, training, and job applications. Additionally, they provide emergency assistance, such as during recent floods, offering shelter, food, and aid in rehousing affected families. Their work emphasizes inclusivity, practical help, and community engagement, making a significant impact in Hastings.
This list of charities in Hastings isn’t the only one, and AAM Nation Care is yet another amazing organization that cares about people and their future.