The Community Support Network was officially launched on 5th July 2013. It was created by Mohammed Al-Rahim, Freshwinds’ Founder, President and CEO, who is also the Chair.

The Community Support Network is a group of over 40 large and small organisations from the Third Sector and multi-faith groups which was set up in late autumn 2012 in response to the potential plight of our fellow Birmingham citizens who are being affected by the changes brought about by the Welfare Reform Act and its implementation in combination with the aftermath of the recession (high unemployment and the rising cost of living).

The aim of the Network is to formulate a coordinated response to the provision of all forms of crisis support that may be required such as food banks, clothing banks, hardship funds, advice giving or any other crisis support including access to temporary/emergency accommodation.

We aspire to be an effective and supportive network of organisations and groups working together to mutually support each other for the benefit of our fellow Birmingham citizens who are in need of both high and low level crisis support as well as those individuals and families who are experiencing low levels of income or are disadvantaged whether physically, socially or economically.

More information can be found on the Community Support Network website.