Faith in Families was honoured at the Senedd this week as a St David Awards finalist in the Community Champion category.
The St David Awards are the highest national accolades conferred by Welsh Government, recognising people and organisations making a real difference to Wales. To stand as a St David Awards finalist alongside so many incredible charities and community groups from across the country was a proud and powerful moment for Swansea.
Faith in Families CEO Cherrie Bija and Cwtch Mawr Multibank Manager Jon Waite attended the ceremony in Cardiff, representing our team, our volunteers, and the thousands of families who are part of our story.
And what a story it is.
What Being a St David Awards Finalist Represents
Being named a St David Awards finalist is national recognition of the impact happening every day across our Community Cwtches and Cwtch Mawr Multibank.
It recognises innovation.
It recognises partnership.
It recognises community.
Since launching in 2024, Cwtch Mawr has redistributed over one million essential items to families who need them most. In its first year alone, the initiative generated nearly £28 million in social value, proving that community-led solutions deliver measurable change.
However, the heart of this recognition lies in people.
Children now have warm quilts instead of thin sheets. Parents feel less financial pressure at the end of the month. Schools report improved attendance and confidence. Because support is delivered with dignity, families feel seen rather than judged.
That is what this national recognition celebrates.
You can learn more about the St David Awards on the Welsh Government website:
👉 https://www.gov.wales/st-david-awards
Community Champion Work Rooted in Swansea
Faith in Families exists to strengthen communities from the ground up.
Our Community Cwtches provide safe, welcoming spaces where children can play, learn, and access therapy. Meanwhile, parents receive advice, training, and connection. These spaces reduce isolation and build resilience before crisis takes hold.
Alongside this, Cwtch Mawr Multibank has reshaped how Wales approaches surplus goods and poverty. By partnering with organisations including Amazon, Sofidel and Leekes, we keep essential items in circulation and out of landfill.
As Jon Waite reflected after the ceremony:
“Standing at the Senedd as a St David Awards finalist was an incredibly proud moment. It reflects the daily work of our warehouse team, our referral partners, and the families who trust us. This recognition belongs to our whole community.”
Cherrie Bija added:
“To be recognised nationally as St David Awards finalists is a huge honour. We stood alongside inspiring organisations from across Wales, all working to strengthen their communities. This moment shows that Swansea’s voice is being heard.”
Recognition Among Wales’ Leading Community Groups
The evening at the Senedd brought together outstanding individuals and organisations from across Wales. Each finalist represented a different story of resilience, innovation, and compassion.
Therefore, being named a St David Awards finalist places Faith in Families among leaders in community action nationwide.
National recognition creates momentum. Momentum creates opportunity. Opportunity creates lasting change.
Most importantly, this recognition belongs to everyone who makes our work possible — our volunteers, donors, referral partners, and families.
What Happens Next?
We return to Swansea energised and proud.
Families still need safe spaces. Communities still need connection. Children still deserve opportunity.
So if you would like to be part of what comes next, you can:
💙 Volunteer
💙 Donate
💙 Partner with us
💙 Share our story
Visit https://faithinfamilies.wales to find out how you can get involved.
Being a St David Awards finalist is a powerful milestone. However, it is only one chapter in a much bigger story.
And we are just getting started.
