How a compassionate mother founded a lifeline for young families

The Little Green Sock Project, a baby bank based in Trafford, is steadfastly supporting families with young children, ensuring they have the essentials to thrive during difficult times.

As the cost of living crisis deepens, families across Greater Manchester are feeling the strain like never before.

The Little Green Sock Project is a lifeline for families with young children, offering them the essentials they need to thrive and lifting their spirits in difficult times.

Founded on a powerful belief that all children deserve the basics to grow and flourish, Little Green Sock has become an indispensable resource for the community.

By collecting and redistributing high-quality, pre-loved children’s clothing and items, the charity ensures that no child goes without, even in the toughest of circumstances.

Through partnerships with health visitors, food banks, and domestic violence refuges, the organisation reaches those who need it most, providing not just items, but hope and dignity to struggling families.

The Little Green Sock Project

Catherine D’Albertanson, the founder of Little Green Sock, has a deeply personal motivation driving her work.

Reflecting on her childhood, she shared: “As a young child I witnessed domestic abuse daily.

“I experienced the need for emergency support when our family escaped from abuse.

“However, back in the 80s, support like what Little Green Sock Project provided didn’t exist and we ended up returning to collect possessions, getting sucked back into the cycle of abuse and the emotional blackmail that went with it.

“The threats of suicide if we left again, and threats of financial ruin he would leave us in.

“The abuse continued for a further 15 years before we were finally able to break free.”

Fast forward to December 2021, after the birth of her second child, Catherine found herself wanting to gift her newborn’s outgrown clothes to someone in need.

Horrified by the level of child poverty in Manchester, she took action.

“I kept thinking about my childhood and how having material provision could have made a difference.

“It may have prevented us from going back into that abusive environment just to collect school uniforms or clothing,” she recalled.

Community response and achievements

Since its inception in March 2022, the community’s response to Little Green Sock has been nothing short of phenomenal.

“Community is the backbone of our organisation,” said Catherine.

“We’ve collected and redistributed over 17 tonnes of items, all donated by the local community.

“Over 300 volunteers have contributed more than 7,000 hours of their time.”

The support extends to local businesses and organisations, which have conducted workplace collections for essential items.

From youth volunteers helping at Stretford Mall to mature volunteers bringing skills and a great sense of humour, the collective effort has enabled the distribution of over 1,500 bundles of clothing and equipment to families in need.

“Our volunteers range from youth volunteers who support our Saturday collections at Stretford Mall twice a month and help give us the low down on what kids are interested in these days!

“To our more mature volunteers who bring a lifetime of experience and skills such as sewing, ironing and organisation, as well as a boatload of humour.

“All of this has enabled us to distribute over 1500 bundles of clothing and equipment to families teetering on the brink, struggling to afford essentials for their children.

“A pram – not just a pram – it’s a lifeline for a parent with two young children to get out from their four walls. Stairgates give little ones the freedom to roam without the risk of a serious injury.

“Wellies to transform muddy puddles into magical adventures, ensuring no child feels excluded from the joy of exploration.

“Our community has risen to the challenge”

“Our community has risen to the challenge, forming a protective shield around vulnerable families. Their outpouring of support is a testament to the power of human kindness, and we want to continue to harness that support!”

The urgent need for space

However, the charity faces significant challenges, particularly in securing adequate space.

“Funding and space are our biggest challenges,” Catherine admits.

“Our current premises in Stretford Mall are scheduled for demolition next year, which means we urgently need to find an alternative space to continue our vital work.”

The Little Green Sock Project is appealing to land and property owners who might have unused space or local philanthropists willing to invest in their mission.

“We’re looking for a new home and every square foot counts. Imagine the difference it could make to thousands of children for years to come.”

Addressing Child Poverty

The scale of the problem is staggering. More than 11,000 children in Trafford live in poverty, a number that shocks many.

“Trafford is the wealthiest borough in Greater Manchester, but its wealth is not evenly distributed,” Catherine explained.

“Areas of North and West Trafford share the same levels of child poverty as central Manchester.

“Our support is focused where it’s needed most, and we extend help to Salford and Manchester too.”

Little Green Sock’s call to action

As Little Green Sock continues to support families, the need for community involvement is more critical than ever.

“We believe all children should have the basics.

“There’s so much overconsumption of toys, clothing, and children’s items, all of which can be passed on to those in need,” said Catherine.

“We provide that link so no child needs to go without.”

For Catherine, the Little Green Sock Project is a manifestation of her belief in the power of community and sustainability.

“Our mission extends beyond immediate relief to promoting sustainable living practices. By reusing and recycling children’s items, we support families and protect the environment.”

Little Green Sock’s future hinges on securing new premises and continuing to harness community support.

Catherine’s message is clear: “We need your help to continue making a difference.

“Whether you can offer space, volunteer your time, or donate, every bit counts.

“With your support, we can ensure no child in Greater Manchester goes without the basics they need to thrive.”

You can find out more about the Little Green Sock Project by clicking here