We are proud to announce our new charitable partnership with Faith in Families and its community centre, Cwtch Mawr. This collaboration marks a significant step in Leekes’ ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on local communities, with a focus on empowering families and children across Wales.

Faith in Families and Cwtch Mawr: A lifeline for vulnerable families

Faith in Families, a Swansea-based charity, has been a lifeline for families in some of the most deprived areas of Wales. Through their network of family centres, including the beloved Cwtch Mawr (meaning “big hug” in Welsh), the charity provides essential services to children and parents facing challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and social isolation.

From early years education and after-school programs to parenting advice, mental health support, and even food banks, Faith in Families offers a wide range of services that create long lasting change. Cwtch Mawr, a welcoming community hub, is particularly well-known for its nurturing environment, where children and parents find support, resources, and, most importantly, hope for a brighter future.

Since launching in 2024, Cwtch Mawr has helped more than 86,000 beneficiaries including 27,000 families, distributing over 250,000 items to those in need. The initiative works in collaboration with schools, community organisations, homeless shelters, and Swansea Council’s social services to ensure these vital supplies reach families who need them most.

The #HugsNotHandouts campaign

As part of this exciting new partnership, Leekes recently supported the #HugsNotHandouts campaign. This initiative, led by Faith in Families and Cwtch Mawr, emphasises the importance of empowerment over dependency. Rather than simply providing short-term relief, #HugsNotHandouts is about giving families the tools, skills, and support they need to regain control over their lives and break free from the cycle of poverty.

The campaign’s message is simple: Every family deserves a chance to thrive, and support should come in the form of guidance, education, and opportunities—not just charity. Through a range of family-centric activities, counseling, and educational programs, #HugsNotHandouts ensures families can stand on their own feet, supported by a loving community.

Leekes’ Role in the partnership – making a house a home

Leekes’ involvement helps to provide some much needed resources for Faith in Families and Cwtch Mawr but will also help raise awareness for the #HugsNotHandouts campaign. We are pleased to provide the charity with a range of essentials to help make a house a home. These items include kitchenware and homeware pieces from plates and cutlery to bedding and textiles along with a selection of decorative items, like pictures, mirrors and clocks.

As a Welsh, family run business with strong ties to the region, we have a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact within the local community. Leekes understands the importance of giving back and supporting initiatives that foster growth, wellbeing, and inclusivity. Faith in Families’ mission to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and families resonated with Leekes’ values.

“Our partnership with Cwtch Mawr and Faith in Families reflects our commitment to supporting the communities that have supported us for over 125 years. Together, we are not just providing resources, but creating opportunities and brighter futures for local families.” – Emma Leeke, Managing Director – Leekes Retail