Family2Family honoured with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service at presentation ceremony

Family2Family officially received The King’s Award for Voluntary Service on 22 April 2026 during a formal presentation ceremony at Hendall Manor Barns.

This prestigious award, the highest a voluntary group in the UK can receive (equivalent to an MBE), was presented to the Crowborough-based charity by the Lord-Lieutenant of East Sussex. 

Event Highlights

• The Ceremony: The event celebrated the charity’s outstanding contributions, described by founder Hannah Powell as a "real celebration of community and friendships".
• The Award Items: As part of the honour, the charity received a certificate signed by His Majesty The King and a commemorative crystal.
• Impact Recognised: The Lord-Lieutenant praised the organisation as being "at the heart of your community," specifically for its work helping those most in need.
• Next Steps: Following the presentation, the charity founders are scheduled to attend a royal garden party later this spring. 

About Family2Family

Originally founded in 2018 as Baby2Baby & Beyond, the charity renamed in 2024. It focuses on: 

• Gifting Hope and Dignity: Redistributing high-quality baby and children's clothing, toys, and toiletries to families facing hardship in East Sussex.
• Volunteer-Led Support: Operating through a network of professional referrals (such as health visitors and social workers) to reach vulnerable families.
• Community Reach: Supporting over 1,400 children annually through its core services, with thousands more reached through seasonal campaigns like "Bags4School".