30th November 2021
Give the Gift of Joy
An encouragement from our Executive Director, Jenny, for our first week of this year's Christmas appeal.
30th November 2021
An encouragement from our Executive Director, Jenny, for our first week of this year's Christmas appeal.
27th November 2021
Acts 435 Christmas appeal 2021
4th November 2021
Pray for our work and those we help at this crucial time...
7th October 2021
Please join us in praying for our work, and those we help, at this crucial time.
7th October 2021
Giving, as a church, to those facing poverty and hardship
7th October 2021
Do you want to find out more about how we can resource your church or local charity with direct financial help for those struggling in your community? Then join us on Thursday 21st October at 10am
30th September 2021
The removal of the Universal Credit Uplift will see more people seeking the assistance of charities, such as Acts 435, who can help them to plug the gap.
16th September 2021
Over the last few weeks the news has highlighted the needs of those seeking refuge from Afghanistan. Read how Acts 435, in partnership with our local Advocates and Welcome Churches, seeks to help.
10th September 2021
Please join us in praying for our work and those we reach in the local communities across the UK.
4th August 2021
Please join us in praying our work and those we reach at this crucial time.
2nd August 2021
Margaret Sentamu steps down from her role as a trustee.
2nd August 2021
Could you help a family struggling to provide school uniform and equipment for their children?
19th July 2021
Watch our latest inspiring video of our work through two local charities based in Newcastle.
1st July 2021
Please join us in praying our work and those we reach at this crucial time.
1st July 2021
Our Executive Director speaks about her experiences, and what the bible says, about God's heart for the poor in our communities.
1st July 2021
Listen to our Executive Director, Jenny Herrera, share about God's Heart for the Poor, and how Acts 435 put this into action.
23rd June 2021
Ian Lawrence is a local Advocate based in Birmingham. Alongside the Waterways Chaplains he has an active ministry serving those in need who live in houseboats on the many canals there.
15th June 2021
This week (14th-20th June) is Refugee Week - an encouragement to support Refugees and Asylum Seekers in the UK.
1st June 2021
Please join us in praying for our work and those we reach at this crucial time.
18th May 2021
Acts 435 requests are often for physical items such as washing machines or carpets. However, there are other requests for help that are just as important such as fees for counselling sessions, which provide help and hope to those who need it.
6th May 2021
Please join us in praying for our work and those we reach at this crucial time.
4th May 2021
We're thankful to all of our donors who have helped us to give £3,000,000 directly to those in need in the UK through our local network!
1st May 2021
A Year Like No Other
17th April 2021
We were so excited to share and celebrate the work of Acts 435 online with over 60 of our supporters last week, and now is your chance to watch it too!
15th April 2021
During Easter our donors generously gave over £24,000 to give a fresh start to those who so desperately need it.
6th April 2021
Pray for our work, and those we reach, at this crucial time.
24th March 2021
We'd love to celebrate the work of Acts 435 with our community of donors and supporters online!
23rd March 2021
The national online giving charity Acts 435 has seen a surge in those looking for help over the past twelve months, alongside a lift in donors with more disposable income, indicating a widening of the gap between those who need support, and those that are able to help.
18th March 2021
As we look towards Easter and spring with the expectation of hope and new beginnings could you donate to give a fresh start?
4th March 2021
Pray for our work, and those we reach, at this crucial time.
2nd February 2021
Pray for our work, and those we reach, at this crucial time.
27th January 2021
This year we're partnering with Welcome Churches to help refugees in the UK who are digitally isolated from their local communities, church communities and loved ones.
6th January 2021
Pray for our work, and those we reach, at this crucial time.
5th January 2021
Blog looking back at 2020
11th December 2020
We're so incredibly grateful for our Network of Churches and Charities spread all over the UK, but as the need is ever increasing - we need more churches with a heart for those in poverty or crisis to partner with us!
11th December 2020
Moving house can be one of the most exciting, but also the most stressful events. If you have a low income the costs involved in moving, and setting up your new home can make this event even more challenging.
2nd December 2020
As a nation we have never been more aware of personal finances, and the need for support for those facing low income, poverty and debt. A Debt Relief Order is one path that someone facing debt might be able to take to release themselves from the grip of debt.
1st December 2020
Each month we bring you points of prayer and thankfulness, as we ask you to pray for our work, and those we seek to help.
29th November 2020
Each Christmas Acts 435 runs an appeal to meet as many of the current needs on our website as possible. This year is no different, and we've seen the need almost double since March. So, please do consider giving the gift of hope this Christmas to an individual who has found themselves in a desperate situation in 2020.
2nd November 2020
As the country once again prepares to 'lockdown' how can you, or your church, respond to the increasing needs in our communities?
1st November 2020
Each month we bring you points of prayer and thankfulness, as we ask you to pray for our work, and those we seek to help.
9th October 2020
Take a look to pray for our work, and those we seek to help.
14th September 2020
The school term is now in full-swing for every child in the UK, and we're thankful that children from 69 families were able to attend in the correct uniform and with the correct resources!
11th September 2020
We often partner with other charities and organisations, which enables us to see more growth of those partnering with Acts 435, and to reach more people in need. Recently we have partnered with Welcome Churches, a refugee charity working through local churches.
8th September 2020
Each year our local Advocates gather in York to be equipped and inspired to seek those in need in their communities. This year, it's looking quite different.
7th August 2020
As we launch our annual school uniforms appeal we look at the cost involved in getting your child ready for a new school.
22nd July 2020
The REACH Centre in Haverhill, Suffolk, have been as busy as ever during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, as the rules have relaxed they are once again changing how they operate.
17th June 2020
The 12th July was the official launch of Acts 435, so please do celebrate with us by sharing our work during your Sunday service (on whatever platform you can!).
7th June 2020
Jenny Herrera, Executive Director of Acts 435, was recently asked to participate in Dr John Sentamu, The Archbishop Of York's, final Eucharist service, which was broadcast on 7th June 2020.
22nd May 2020
One of our partner organisations, based in Halifax, has had to adapt it's services during the current coronavirus pandemic, and also introduce new services as it helps those in need during this time.
11th May 2020
We have been constantly inspired and encouraged by our Advocates and how they have continued to serve their communities through the current Covid-19 pandemic. Here is just one story of how Alan, from Cleckheaton, has continued in his role as Acts 435 Advocate.
29th April 2020
Jenny speaks to UCB Radio about the work of Acts 435 and our ten year anniversary.
29th April 2020
Acts 435, the online giving charity, which Dr John Sentamu is the patron of, is celebrating ten years since the launch of its unique website. The charity’s website enables donors to give directly to individuals who are in poverty or crisis situations, through a network of over 350 local churches and charities all over the UK.
24th April 2020
As part our Ten Year Anniversary we have produced a brand new video and booklet to share and celebrate the last ten years of helping those in need.
17th April 2020
This year Acts 435 celebrates a decade of helping those in need in the UK.
4th March 2020
As the work of Acts 435 grows, it is necessary for our small Head Office team to grow with it! We have made a couple of changes and a new face we'd like to introduce to you.
4th December 2019
Why not give to someone in need instead, and then pass on the message to your friends and family?
4th December 2019
While you're purchasing gifts for loved ones, why not give another gift to someone in need, and give them the feeling of being loved?
15th November 2019
Press Release on reaching another milestone - 20,000th person helped
8th November 2019
It's #TrusteeWeek, and we've also had some new trustees join our board in the last 3 months, so what better opportunity to introduce them and remind you of our current Board of Trustees.
18th July 2019
We have recently taken the decision to use a portion of our Gift Aid towards helping those who have larger needs than those posted on our website.
21st June 2019
The Trussell Trust, who are responsible for Food Banks up and down the country, have recently seen a huge increase in the number of people accessing their Food Banks because of the five week, or often longer, wait for Universal Credit.
17th May 2019
Where there's a will, there's a way - a story of perseverance and determination to get Acts 435 up and running.
29th April 2019
The last in our team spotlights we'd love to introduce you to Rhona, our amazing Administration Assistant (and much more!).
21st March 2019
Find out more about Jenny who leads the Acts 435 team
16th January 2019
To start the year we're going to be introducing you to our head office team; who we are and what we do for Acts 435. So firstly, meet Katie.
8th November 2018
Local charity recognised for inspirational work at Christian Funders’ Forum Awards, winning Best Replicable Project 2018
17th October 2018
Blog on launch of Larger Gifts Appeal
3rd October 2018
Inspirational work at this charity making a massive difference
2nd October 2018
Ruth and her charity, Footprints in the Community, have recently partnered with Acts 435, but she's already finding what a great resource it can be to those that she connects with every day.
25th July 2018
How effective delegation ensures Acts 435 runs smoothly
19th July 2018
Following a visit to HMP Humber and All Saints South Cave I was struck by how much we should value volunteers.
6th July 2018
Let's get a fridge for those struggling without!
21st June 2018
Here we discover how Emma is utilising Acts 435 in her local church, but also in her local primary school.
21st June 2018
Acts 435 is encouraging all churches to partner with them to help 15,000 people ahead of the school summer holidays.
8th June 2018
Mailshot highlighting the needs of people on the website.
27th April 2018
Of lives changed through Acts 435
23rd April 2018
Ruth Howard-Birt is the Christians Against Poverty Centre Manager in her local church of Skipton Baptist in North Yorkshire.
6th March 2018
Of the amazing generosity we experienced on 1st March 2018
1st March 2018
Featured within Stewardship's #40acts generosity challenge.
6th February 2018
How Liz combines her Christians Against Poverty work with Acts 435
10th January 2018
Speaking to Joanne Brophy I was very inspired to find out all she has accomplished as an Acts 435 Advocate in a very short period - and she’s not stopping there! Here she describes how easy it is to take the role as an Advocate and utilise it in ministries you’re already involved in, but also branching out to reach other areas that need the help of Acts 435.
1st December 2017
BLOG: Acts 435 invites you to give another gift this Christmas, to someone in need.
28th November 2017
Reflection on the skewed Black Friday focus in the UK. Where is the thanksgiving?
26th November 2017
How a whole team of inspiring people coordinate to provide for many through their community project.
9th November 2017
How Acts 435 connects so well with the 'More than Food' strategy of the Trussell Trust
20th October 2017
Gail is a Christians Against Poverty Centre Manager, and utilises Acts 435 to help those who she comes into contact with through the debt centre.
22nd August 2017
A team of Advocates who run Acts 435 through their church community cafe - helping to provide needs for those they come into contact with.
2nd August 2017
Acts 435 for Church Schools - a simple way to make a big impact in your community
1st August 2017
C was jobless and homeless but thanks to Food Bank and generous donations from Acts 435 she now has a fresh start.
11th July 2017
Kat works for Safe Families for Children in the Midlands, who are partnered with Acts 435 to help those in need in a practical way, while they work alongside them.
5th July 2017
News Release as we mark £1,000,000 of grants to help people in UK poverty with specific needs.
22nd June 2017
Lyn is a local Advocate for South Cave, but not only uses it in her immediate setting but Advocates with a local charity and prison.
9th May 2017
Ed Hambleton manages the housing charity Restore, based in York.
27th April 2017
Hear how Advocate Ann Merrigan has used Acts 435 to help so many people in need.
5th April 2017
How Acts 435 funding turned a life around from facing prison to creating a home with his cats!
26th March 2017
NEWS RELEASE: on making our 10,000th grant to bless people in need
23rd March 2017
How Acts 435 is being used through an Anglican church in Hastings, East Sussex to bless people in need.
22nd February 2017
Hear how one man used his own resilience to survive life on the streets, with an important hand-up from his local Acts 435 advocate.
15th February 2017
Advocate Spotlight highlighting the work of Ruth, Jean and Avril in Cornwall.
8th February 2017
See how one church decided to get creative in how it supported Acts 435 last year.
12th January 2017
Hear about Jon's experiences as an Acts 435 advocate for Taunton Vineyard Church in Somerset
1st January 2017
At the start of a New Year, consider signing your church or local charity up to Acts 435 to go that extra mile for people in need.
6th December 2016
A look inside the world of Sally Ben, advocate for Vision Church in Leeds.
28th November 2016
On Giving Tuesday, let's remember giving is something we can and should do with joy. I believe it is definitely true that it is more blessed to give than receive.
7th November 2016
An interview with Colchester advocate Patsi Morgans about her experience of using Acts 435, tying in with our focus this month on Children.
18th October 2016
BLOG: a reminder of our Gift Aid model and where we are today in our quest to become a fully self-sustaining charity whilst still providing true direct giving for donors.
25th August 2016
BLOG post on how churches can start small to help people in their local community
8th July 2016
BLOG: launching our Add Another Advocate challenge at our recent Advocates Gathering
18th April 2016
BLOG: on how we might help that #OneMillionTooMany
11th April 2016
News Release encouraging churches to get involved in a scheme that really works!
27th March 2016
BLOG: Success of our Easter Appeal
9th March 2016
BLOG: Easter Appeal - let's give many a fresh start this Easter
23rd February 2016
Advocate Spotlight on Open Door Church in Peterborough, achieving great things from a small space.
24th January 2016
Advocate profile on Helen Syrop Advocate for Buttershaw Baptist and founder of Hope Housing (Bradford)) and Ruth Davison (Hope Housing Advocate).
20th January 2016
BLOG: What you gave in 2015
7th January 2016
BLOG: looking at the effect of the Boxing Day floods in Calderdale, West Yorkshire
22nd December 2015
NEWS RELEASE: Acts 435 Donors Amazing Response to Christmas Campaign
11th December 2015
BLOG: A Wondrous Gift
28th November 2015
BLOG: Anticipation for Christmas
20th November 2015
Acts 435 Cotton Bags now available
17th November 2015
BLOG: Some reflections following a trip to Sheffield on the juxtaposition I experienced there.
11th November 2015
BLOG: How Acts 435 is helping Vulnerable Children in Barnsley, South Yorkshire
9th November 2015
NEWS RELEASE: Acts 435 Appeals for its ‘Children in Need’ Requests
4th November 2015
BLOG: Profile of an advocate from a church in South London and how she has spread the word for Acts 435.
23rd October 2015
BLOG: learn more about how you can decorate an Acts 435 Christmas tree, help those in poverty and raise awareness of the work of Acts 435.
23rd October 2015
NEWS RELEASE: #anothergift appeal
14th October 2015
BLOG: Advocate Spotlight on Gordon and Michelle, serving in Oldham, Lancashire
7th October 2015
BLOG: Advocate Spotlight on Claire Daniels in Scarborough
25th September 2015
Introducing our new Acts 435 Donor Video - hope you like it.
25th August 2015
BLOG: a wonderful story of how Acts 435 donors made holiday magic for a grandma and her two granddaughters.
7th July 2015
BLOG: News Release after Anniversary Celebrations yesterday
2nd July 2015
BLOG: News Release - Acts 435 Marks Five Years of Giving
2nd May 2015
BLOG: News release about the '4 things you can do on the 3/5' challenge
27th April 2015
VIDEO: 4 things you can do on the 3/5 - a ballot paper with a difference!
10th March 2015
BLOG: The Blessing of Giving and Receiving - featured on the Church of England Communications Office blog.
9th March 2015
PRESS RELEASE: marking the milestone of 5,000 requests granted
3rd March 2015
BLOG: Stepping Out - following a recent visit to a church in the Wirral, this blog entry looks at the importance of taking that step forwards to connect with those in need.
23rd February 2015
BLOG: The Archbishop of York highlights Acts 435 as a way of putting love into action as he reflects on the traditional readings during Lent.
6th February 2015
BLOG: February spotlight on our category of Housing
9th January 2015
BLOG: Spotlight from January's mailshot on benefit sanctions and delays
25th December 2014
BLOG: Christmas is come - final Poverty Stories and MERRY CHRISTMAS!
21st December 2014
BLOG: 4th Sunday of Advent and 2 more Poverty Stories. Always Hope.
16th December 2014
BLOG: You shall be known by your Trees! My reflections after visiting my first Christmas Tree Festival, complete with an Acts 435 Tree.
14th December 2014
BLOG: 3rd Sunday in Advent and speeding towards Christmas. Another two poverty stories as we raise awareness of why people are struggling financially.
7th December 2014
BLOG: a look at some Poverty Stories as we go through Advent.
30th November 2014
BLOG: Advent Sunday - looking at why people in the UK can end up struggling financially
25th November 2014
BLOG: Primary School Lesson for Christmas Trees launched
6th November 2014
BLOG Sharing my Experience of putting up the first Acts 435 Christmas Tree and how it helped us reflect on UK poverty.
31st October 2014
BLOG: Twitter campaign #anothergift
31st October 2014
BLOG: Christmas e-cards and ethical gifts - give to someone in need instead of sending Christmas cards or giving a gift.
29th September 2014
BLOG: The importance of relationships, and how a lack of relationships with family and friends impacts on poverty.
8th August 2014
BLOG: Ill and in Need - how a Prescription Prepayment can help.
20th June 2014
BLOG: Check out our new Animated Video setting out how Acts 435 works in practice
22nd April 2014
BLOG: York Press Appeal target reached in days. A fantastic result!
17th April 2014
BLOG: York Press launch Acts 435 appeal as part of Stamp Out Poverty campaign.
9th April 2014
VIDEO: a flavour of our Annual Advocate's Gathering held on 31st March 2014. Learn more of what it is to be an advocate.
1st April 2014
BLOG: Advocates Gather at Bishopthorpe Palace
28th February 2014
BLOG: The Power of Community. Stories to make you stop and think, and in my case, be choked up with emotion!
15th February 2014
BLOG: Help for Flood Victims
21st December 2013
BLOG: On 21st December 2013, we mark the posting of our 3,000th request. What a milestone.
28th November 2013
BLOG: Reflecting on the Impact of Being Warm
23rd October 2013
With so many requests posted for Debt Relief Orders (DROs) here is an explanation of what it is all about.
10th October 2013
GUEST BLOG by the Archbishop of York taken from Luke 7:11-16. Part of the "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
7th October 2013
BLOG: The Difference is Tangible: Part of the 'Little Acts go a Long Way' campaign.
30th September 2013
BLOG: Brightening Up Someone's Day. Little acts of sacrifice, part of the "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
26th September 2013
BLOG: Your Little Act of Sacrifice, part of the "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
23rd September 2013
GUEST BLOG by the Archbishop of York taken from 1 Kings 17:7-16. Part of the 'Little Acts go a Long Way' campaign.
19th September 2013
BLOG: Words vs Deeds. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
16th September 2013
BLOG: The Sheep and the Goats. Biblical little acts, part of the "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
13th September 2013
GUEST BLOG: Building Relationships, Breaking Barriers by Matt Parker, Kids Alive International. Part of 'Little Acts go a Long Way' campaign.
10th September 2013
BLOG: Scared to Act. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" Campaign.
9th September 2013
GUEST BLOG by one of our Acts 435 advocates: Part of 'Little Acts go a Long Way' campaign.
4th September 2013
BLOG: A Deeper Solidarity. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" Campaign.
2nd September 2013
BLOG: Kindness to a Stranger. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" Campaign.
30th August 2013
BLOG: Undeserving. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" Campaign.
30th August 2013
BLOG: Love for new parents. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
29th August 2013
BLOG: Flowers: 'Little Acts in the context of Marriage' part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
28th August 2013
BLOG: Share YOUR Little Act: Part of 'Little Acts go a Long Way' campaign.
27th August 2013
BLOG: Little Acts of LOVE. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
23rd August 2013
BLOG: Jesus' Pinball Ministry. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
20th August 2013
BLOG: Dorcas. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
19th August 2013
BLOG: The Little Boy. Part of "Little Acts go a Long Way" campaign.
19th August 2013
NEWS RELEASE: Acts 435 today has announced the launch of its "Little Acts go a Long Way" social media campaign.
5th August 2013
With payday Lenders in the limelight over the past couple of weeks since the Archbishop of Canterbury declared his intention to compete them out of business, we see from our requests the kind of situations that necessitate short-term loans to tide people over until pay-day.
11th July 2013
With so much debate in the past week about bedroom tax and about the need for Foodbanks, it's good to be involved in acting, rather than talking, as we provide help in practical ways to some of those nameless people affected.
23rd June 2013
BBC Radio Humberside broadcast an interview with Acts 435 advocate from Goole, Dave Sample, this morning. An excellent opportunity to keep spreading the word to those who need help, who want to give and who want to become an advocate.
11th June 2013
Another milestone reached today - the 2,000th request. Accelerated growth as churches respond to those in need.
2nd May 2013
Just wanted to highlight a couple of recent success stories that show the impact Acts 435 is having.
4th April 2013
Some of the requests posted by our advocates go to the heart. Fleeing domestic violence and coping with cancer. A bed seems so little to ask.
21st March 2013
First request posted by advocate in Derbyshire met in full in just 2 hours - now that really is quick assistance for those in need.
12th March 2013
Last summer we set a target of hitting 800 requests by our 2 year anniversary on 12th July 2012. We have now doubled that number in record time!
8th March 2013
Acts 435 Gives Fast Financial Help for Struggling Families in Scotland
13th February 2013
Starting from Wednesday 13 February to Easter Sunday, St Mary’s will be looking at ways to promote giving to those in need as well as supporting those in their own community who can benefit from an Acts 435 grant.
4th February 2013
Acts 435 and Christians Against Poverty have together provided significant help to a family in Dorset. Imagine how much could be achieved if we could all work together.
30th January 2013
The Guardian today reports Downing Street sources saying Food Banks should not be required because benefit levels are high enough. But isn't that missing the point? It seems to me the main issue is not whether people can cope with the normal daily living costs if on benefits but how they cope when something goes wrong ...
12th January 2013
With 47% of the town ranked in the bottom 10% poorest places to live in the UK what better place to further develop Acts 435? In these communities up to 59% of children are living in poverty. With a population in Middlesbrough of 140,000, this adds up to a lot of people in need.
31st December 2012
Humbling to see how Acts 435 is making a difference.
27th December 2012
This Christmas I have been reflecting on what brings happiness to people at Christmas. Many people have been helped through Acts 435 this month bringing them the best gifts they could imagine - food ... warmth ... somewhere to sleep.
23rd December 2012
The Archbishop writes in today's Mail on Sunday (page 38) about how we are unique and valued by God, whoever we are. He goes on to explain how we should help those in need, elaborating with examples from Acts 435. May it result in new donors responding to the fact that 100% of what they give will go directly to those in need.
16th December 2012
The Archbishop of York's sermon in the Sun on Sunday today, page 15, talks of the importance of serving others as part of our preparation for Christmas. Charities such as Acts 435 are good ways to do this he explains.
14th December 2012
Archbishop of York has today featured Acts 435 in his Online Advent Calendar, suggesting we might, in lieu of giving a present, make a donation to help someone in need through Acts 435.
7th December 2012
Everyone is talking about those in our nation struggling at the moment whether it's homelessness, Food Banks, benefits squeezes, etc. etc. We expect many more requests to be posted as a result. The vulnerable, in particular, can be helped as long as those meeting with them know about Acts 435. That's our challenge - to keep getting that word spread.
4th December 2012
Launched today, 4th December, our website has undergone a fresh makeover which we think makes it much easier to read and just as simple to use as it always was. See what you think? Any suggestions/feedback, please email me at admin@acts435.org.uk
17th November 2012
With renewed discussion of the Living Wage over the past 2 weeks we are again confronted with the reality of UK poverty, even for those who are in paid employment. And what about those who fall on hard times and lose their job ...
31st October 2012
On returning from maternity leave, I am struck by the number of requests for help and what a variety of needs there are. But what an encouragement to see the difference Acts 435 continues to make to those struggling financially.
11th September 2012
On 6th September I gave birth to a baby girl and am now on 6 weeks maternity leave. During that period, Acts 435 will be managed by Heather Elvans who will be looking after the day-to-day running of the charity.
19th August 2012
Today with new requests posted from Leicestershire, we have reached our 1,000th request! Just 7 weeks after hitting our 800th. Our thanks to all those donors responding to these acute needs.
17th August 2012
Following coverage on BBC's Songs of Praise, Acts 435 has seen unprecedented growth, interestingly with 27% of new donors giving between £5 and £10. We believe donors have been encouraged to know that even a small gift CAN MAKE A SIGNIFICANT DIFFERENCE to those in need.
6th August 2012
Acts 435 was yesterday featured on BBC's Songs of Praise. A great opportunity to spread the word about our work. A big thank you to everyone who made it possible.
3rd August 2012
We have some wonderful opportunities to spread the word about Acts 435 this weekend and tell the nation about how those in need are receiving direct, fast, practical help through their local churches and Acts 435 donors. 5pm on the 5th August, BBC 2, sees us featured on 'Songs of Praise' and to mark it I will be interviewed on Radio York (8:10am, Sunday) and Acts 435 advocate Henry Wilson will be interviewed on Radio Suffolk (8:20am, Sunday) to talk about it all.
19th July 2012
As I review the different requests posted onto the Acts 435 website, I find myself many times moved by the difficult circumstances in which people find themselves. I am grateful to God for His provision for my family when we returned to the UK from the mission field, without jobs and a baby on the way.
12th July 2012
2 years ago today, the 12th July, the Archbishop of York launched Acts 435 as a national charity after a successful pilot in North Yorkshire. We celebrate today our growth and development over that time.
9th July 2012
The Yorkshire Post and the York Press highlighted the work of Acts 435 last Friday as we prepared to host our celebratory reception at York Synod. You'll see from the Press article that he is thinking BIG! Thanks to the wonders of Twitter, we hope that the message about Acts 435 will have gone far beyond Yorkshire.
5th July 2012
Our 800th request was posted on 26th June, for a cooker for a lady in York. It has already been met! Another real-life, practical need met by generous donors. And the posting of requests continues ... now up to 831. Here's to the big 1,000!
24th May 2012
See this short video which sets out what Acts 435 is all about - perfect for explaining to your church, your Bible study group, your friends and family.
21st May 2012
I had the privilege of attending a special service on Saturday at St. Hilda's Community Church on the Greatfield Estate in Hull to give thanks for and wish farewell to priest Alison Gilchrist and her husband as they leave to go and minister in Australia. Alison Gilchrist is a founding trustee of Acts 435 and her role has been key in those early stages of setting up the charity.
11th May 2012
Acts 435 Advocates, based in local churches and charities, are able to write personal 'thank you' messages which will go specifically to the donors who gave to those requests. The wonder of technology means this can be done with confidentiality honoured. It's worth repeating this particular thank you which went to a generous donor today - it warms my heart to see the difference a small amount of money can make.
4th May 2012
Acts 435 has set an exciting target in this special year for the City of York, where Acts 435 has its Head Office and where the vision came to life ... 800 requests posted by 6th July 2012. We are optimistic we can do it and our patron, the Archbishop of York, is hosting a special reception at General Synod in York to celebrate Acts 435's achievements.
26th April 2012
We all know it's not just emergency need for food that is on the rise but for all the basic necessities of life. Acts 435 runs very effectively alongside Food Banks as other needs are identified as food is distributed.
19th April 2012
The patron of Acts 435, the Archbishop of York, spoke yesterday at the Church Urban Fund's annual conference about the role churches have in tackling poverty, nationally, regionally and locally. He specifically referred to the excellent work of the Romero Centre in Barnsley which we are pleased to announce has also, today signed up to Acts 435!
3rd April 2012
Yesterday marked our second Advocate's Gathering held at Bishopthorpe Palace. What a wonderful opportunity to bring together advocates from churches of different denominations and from different parts of the country to learn together, share best practice and encourage one another onwards in our work of helping those in need.
16th February 2012
Jesus showed us how to live among the poor, how to love them and show compassion for them. The church's most effective tool today to reduce poverty is still that of the personal touch, caring for people as individuals in their uniqueness.
9th February 2012
A lady who personally wrote to the Patron of Acts 435, the Archbishop of York, with a need for a sewing machine was the proud owner of one just one month later thanks to the way Acts 435 operates. Through generous donors, Acts 435 was able to fulfil its mandate to 'give to anyone in need'.
30th January 2012
Poverty and Homelessness Action Week 2012 runs from 29th January to 5th February. It is jointly organised by Church Action on Poverty, Housing Justice and Scottish Churches Housing Action. Many of our requests are for individuals who have recently been housed sometimes after years living on the streets. Acts 435 provides a great opportunity for people to help these vulnerable adults in practical ways.
26th January 2012
Exciting news - today our 500th request has been posted since the charity began in October 2009, and it also happens to be our first posted by a church in Northern Ireland. Belfast to be precise. We rejoice in the way the word is spreading about Acts 435.
20th January 2012
A request for essential household appliances was posted and here the advocate writes of the impact receiving a donation of £90 meant for the applicant.
13th January 2012
Following the launch of the 'Good Childhood Report 2012' yesterday by the Archbishop of York, which states that at any one time half a million children in the UK are unhappy with their lives, we see how Acts 435 can bring a bit of happiness to individual children. Happiness is a carpet to one 3 year old - a current live request (www.acts435.org.uk/R00477) or football boots for one girl (www.acts435.org.uk/R00458), clothes for an 8 year old boy living in fuel poverty (www.acts435.org.uk/R00455)
30th December 2011
BBC Radio 4 Thought for the Day today was with the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu. The guest editor was former speaker of the House of Commons Betty Boothroyd. The Archbishop again highlighted the role Acts 435 has to play in the current economic climate and drew out one of our recent success stories.
24th December 2011
In the Christmas Eve edition of both the Yorkshire Post and the Sun the Archbishop of York has written messages to the readers, and highlighted Acts 435 as a way to help people facing tough times in the current economic climate.
22nd December 2011
Let me highlight a couple of heart-warming stories posted by an advocate in Scarborough which reminds us what Acts 435 is seeking to achieve. It has been a wonderful reminder to me of how a small amount of money CAN make a BIG difference to those in desperate need. Fuel poverty is very much a reality - thank goodness the temperature has warmed up a bit - pleasant for some of us, a literal life-saver for others.
8th December 2011
The Archbishop of York calls for Christians to fight for fairness. He talks about how our throwaway society has created a culture where even people seem to be disposable. Many unemployed young people thus perceive their society saying that they have no need of them. Acts 435 is emphasised as a practical way we can all help make the poor and vulnerable feel cared for.
1st December 2011
Given the predictions in the Chancellor's Autumn Statement this week, is it any surprise that many more requests are being posted on the Acts 435 website? The challenge now is for us to step up and help these individuals and families. Can you spare £20 to help someone struggling today?
11th November 2011
Don't be too quick to dismiss how Acts 435 can be a blessing to your church. One church has received over £3,000 from Acts 435 in the past year, using every penny for families and individuals in their local community, something they simply wouldn't have had the church budget to do if it wasn't for Acts 435.
3rd November 2011
Charismatic vicar and author, Nicky Gumbel, has today backed the work of the Acts 435 charity.
16th September 2011
Interested in finding out more about how your church can get involved? Come and have a chat with Margaret Sentamu, Managing Director of the charity, and with people already making a local impact as Acts 435 advocates.
16th September 2011
Acts 435 is now a registered charity in Scotland, charity number SC042550, and is able to reach out to people in need across the border.
16th August 2011
Acts 435 has submitted its application to the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator to become a charity in Scotland as it seeks to enable more and more churches to help those in need. Edinburgh and Glasgow churches wait expectantly.
12th July 2011
Acts 435 is celebrating its first birthday today as a national charity. It was on the 12th July 2010 that the Archbishop of York launched his online giving charity outside of the original pilot area.
9th June 2011
Acts 435 has recently added Paypal as an option for donors wanting to give to specific requests. 100% of any donation you make will go directly to the individual in need, quickly and efficiently.
20th January 2011
We greet 2011 with a great sense of anticipation as to how Acts 435 will grow, expand and develop in this coming year. We welcome requests from the London area as well as Bristol and Suffolk and look forward to training up lots of new churches across the country. If you know a church that could participate in this exciting venture and help those in need in their community, please email admin@acts435.co.uk with the details of the church.
17th August 2010
On the 12th July, 2010 the Archbishop of York formally launched Acts 435 to operate at a national level. We are very excited about the new opportunities to enable churches across the country to reach out to those in need in their communities. The launch was a great success with powerful and moving stories from those who have been helped by Acts 435 as well as reports from church advocates of how satisfying it is to be able to help those in need. New churches are showing interest and we soon hope to have requests from all across the nation as Acts 435 reaches out to those in need in these difficult financial times. We also rejoice in an increase in donors and are thankful for the generosity of individuals who follow the message of Acts 435 - to give of what they have to those who find themselves in need. We've now gone live so please sign up if your church is interested or give online if you want to contribute to the needs of others.
10th June 2010
The Archbishop of York is going to officially launch Acts 435 on Monday 12th July. He will share the vision of Acts 435 to Anglican Bishops, members of the business community and the media in the context of the Anglican Church General Synod being held at York University.
14th January 2010
Acts 435 has now been live for three months and we are so excited that we have been able to reach out to needy people in the community and make a real difference!
20th October 2009
The pilot of Acts 435 has been launched. Currently we're collecting requests from parts of North and East Yorkshire and Middlesbrough. Over the next months we plan on widening Acts 435.