Empowering local compassion at no cost
Across the Diocese of Bristol, many of our parishes are already deeply committed to serving their communities through food banks, debt advice cafés, warm spaces, community pantries, pastoral visiting, and countless acts of everyday compassion. Yet one of the greatest challenges churches often face is finding quick, effective ways to respond when someone in need requires practical financial help that falls outside the scope of their normal provision.
This is where Acts 435 offers something exceptional. A simple, Christian, and completely free way to connect people in need with donors who are ready to help.
What is Acts 435?
Acts 435 is a UK Christian charity that enables churches and local organisations to post small, specific needs online so that donors can give directly to individuals facing hardship. It was established in York under the patronage of the then Archbishop, John Sentamu, and is now a nationwide charity. It operates online, directly connecting those who want to give with those who are in genuine need, through a network of local churches and charities. It’s essentially Christian crowdfunding, but uniquely:
- 100% of every donation goes straight to the individual in need: No deductions. No hidden charges. No fundraising targets.
- Administrative costs are covered separately: Gift Aid from donations supports their minimal running costs, including absorbing all credit‑card fees, ensuring the full donation reaches the beneficiary.
- It is completely free for parishes to use: There is no subscription, no sign-up fee, no fundraising department to engage with — simply an easy-to-use platform enabling compassionate giving.
- Requests are small, personal, and dignified: Most requests are up to a £200 limit, and Acts 435 offers guidance to local partners about sensible amounts for typical items such as:
- school uniforms
- essential furniture
- emergency food or gas/electric top-ups
- replacement appliances
- transport costs
- clothing or winter coats
- items needed to move into safer housing
These small interventions often make a life-changing difference.
Why should my parish get involved?
- verified by parish staff or volunteers
- managed sensitively
- often fulfilled within days
- clear guidance for local partners
- a simple online portal for posting requests
- templates for messaging beneficiaries
- resources to help churches identify appropriate requests
How Acts 435 works: Step-by-step guide
- Your parish becomes a partner (a quick and free registration).
- Someone in need is referred or identified through your existing ministry.
- A short request is uploaded by an authorised parish partner.
- Donors choose to give via the Acts 435 website.
- Funds are transferred to your parish to purchase the item or provide the support.
- You deliver the help and continue the pastoral relationship.
Why now?
Cost-of-living pressures mean more households across the Diocese are struggling with essentials that can’t be covered by statutory support. Churches are on the front line, and Acts 435 is designed precisely for this moment.
By becoming a partner parish, you can unlock resources that extend your reach and deepen the impact of your social action without increasing strain on your volunteers, your clergy, or your finances.
Ready to explore becoming a partner?
If your parish is already doing social action, whether through large-scale projects or very simple acts of care, Acts 435 is a natural extension of that ministry. It costs you nothing, but enables you to offer compassionate, targeted help to the people who need it most.