A baby bank which gives new parents free food, nappies and equipment is turning five.

The Ilford Baby Bank, at the Salvation Army in Clements Road, Ilford, has helped more than 210 families over the last five years.

Panna Simon, a family outreach worker at the centre, thanked those who had donated to the centre over the summer months.

She also thanked those who supported the Salvation Army’s drive for school uniform donations before the new school year.

She said: “The generosity of people across Redbridge made a huge difference to these worries when we ran a school uniform drive and were able to help 20 children with all the school uniform they will need for the year ahead.”

This year, the volunteers saw an increase in families asking for food vouchers and clothing vouchers over the summer.

The centre’s summer activities were also very popular, with weekly “Artmakers” craft and play activities busy with families.

Businesses have been supporting the bank by offering free activities over summer for children and families involved with the Salvation Army.

Azia Naveed, the owner of Kids Quest, the soft play area inside Creams in Ilford offered an hour of free play to families connected with The Salvation Army.

A total of 15 children and their parents went to the soft play, and given an ice-cream.

Ms Simon said: “At the end of the hour, a lot of messy, sticky and really smiley faces left the building.

“Azia has already offered to repeat the event during the Christmas holiday.”

If you would like to donate to the baby bank or would like to support the centre, visit the Ilford Salvation Army’s base at 15 Clements Road, Ilford.

The baby bank is always in need of baby formula and nappies.