New To You - June 2025

‘New To You’ is our termly Children’s clothes and toy swap, and is a central part of the Bay Village ministry; to be there for families at every age and stage. The heart behind New To You is to bless our community by providing a space where not only practical needs can be met (the physical things like clothes and shoes that they need) but also a chance to connect with other families and with us. The idea is simple: families across the bay donate clothes, shoes, toys, and equipment they no longer need, and then we open our doors and invite everyone to come and take what they do need—for free.

We noticed this happening organically amongst our Bay Church families and wanted to find a way to extend it out into the community. Jesus calls us to love and help one another, not just our friends and family but those on the outskirts of society and those most in need, which is why we came up with the idea of New to You. But this is so much more than just a swap we also offer free refreshments, children’s activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. New To You feels like any other Bay Church family event; an accessible invite into church that gives us the opportunity to show Jesus’ love through our generosity and hospitality.

On Saturday 21st June we welcomed over 60 families through the doors of the church, many who aren’t connected into church life. And what we witnessed was beautiful: parents arriving with wish lists who were able to tick off every item, expectant parents leaving fully kitted out, and families leaving with bags and bags and bags of toys, books and clothes. We are consistently blown away by people’s generosity in giving away their best, and have seen firsthand what a blessing New To You is to the bay.

A few things people said about New to You;

"I can't tell you how much I needed this." 

"I never miss these events." 

"This has come at just the right time!" 

If you would be interested in joining the Bay Village Crew, we’d love to hear from you!