Who we help
Supporting our local community
St Silvan's Area Charity has been supporting people in our local area since 2001. We purchase items that people may request from us, and contribute towards larger items by working together with other local charities too.
We can support individuals and groups, so long as they live within our catchment area - Edenbridge, Oxted, Hurst Green, Lingfield, Blindley Heath, Godstone, Westerham, Caterham and surrounding villages.
As a small charity, our income is usually under £10,000 a year and we work hard to make that money help as many people as we can. Whilst we live in a very prosperous part of the country, there are still many people who need our help, and our grants fill a valuable gap - typically we pay for things where agencies like Social Services can't help.
It could be that a family is leaving emergency accommodation but has little furniture or essential white goods. Perhaps someone elderly needs a modification to their home that no one else can pay for. We've bought school shoes and uniform, emergency food parcels and paid for some respite care for families where special needs can impact their lives.
We never give cash, and always buy the item directly on behalf of the client. We ask for a thank you note (this can be anonymous) so our supporters can see what we do.
Application process
You can apply to us directly, or you can ask a professional such as a social worker or health visitor to apply to us on your behalf. You can also apply on behalf of a friend, neighbour or family member.
If you are enquiring for yourself then we would usually seek references (perhaps from your doctor or a teacher who knows your family) to satisfy our decision-making committee that the need is genuine and that our assistance is put to the best use.
You can download and complete our application form HERE. We usually send someone to visit you at home.