Annual Report 2016-2020

Boomerang Cardiff: 2016-2020 Achievements and Impact

Boomerang Cardiff, founded by Paul Gwilym, began as a homeless and poverty-focused charity and has grown into a multifaceted organization addressing homelessness, poverty, social isolation, and community engagement.

Over the past four years, the charity has helped over 10,000 families and individuals, providing essential furniture, hygiene packs, and support services to those in need. Its initiatives include the "Homeless to Home Project," which furnishes homes for newly housed individuals, and targeted support for those experiencing in-work poverty, social isolation, and loneliness.

The charity has also made significant strides in community engagement, educating over 1,000 children about poverty, running activity days for disadvantaged families, and addressing period poverty in 32 schools and community centers.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Boomerang Cardiff distributed £40,000 worth of food, saved 250,000 kg of furniture from landfill, and supported key workers and vulnerable individuals with food, treats, and emergency assistance.

Boomerang Cardiff operates with a dedicated team of nine staff members and numerous volunteers, many of whom have personal experiences with homelessness and poverty. The organization collaborates with local businesses, schools, and community groups to amplify its impact. It has received substantial support from donors, sponsors, and initiatives like ASDA’s community scheme, enabling it to continue its mission of empowering and uplifting the Cardiff community.

Boomerang Cardiff provided the following main services during 2016-2020:

Homelessness/Prevention of Homelessness:
Through the "Homeless to Home Project," the charity offers subsidized essential furniture starter packs, including beds, sofas, wardrobes, kitchen utensils, and more, to help newly housed individuals and families furnish their homes.
Support for In-Work Poverty:
Assistance includes providing furniture, white goods, clothing, and other essential items to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship despite being employed.
Social Isolation/Loneliness:
The charity organizes coffee mornings, local groups, activity days, and volunteering opportunities to help people connect and combat loneliness.
Community Engagement/Education:
Boomerang Cardiff supports local schools and community groups by educating children about poverty, running activity days, arts and crafts sessions, and free meal initiatives for disadvantaged families. It also addresses period poverty by distributing sanitary products to schools and community centers.
Emergency Assistance:
The charity provides urgent support, such as furniture and food, to individuals escaping domestic violence, asylum seekers, and those affected by crises like flooding or the COVID-19 pandemic.
Environmental Impact:
Boomerang Cardiff saves furniture from going to landfill by redistributing it to those in need, contributing to a greener footprint.

These services aim to empower individuals, improve living standards, and foster a sense of community.

Looking ahead, Boomerang Cardiff remains committed to expanding its services, combating social isolation, and improving living standards for vulnerable populations. Its ethos...