By Imogen McIntosh, founder & director of Aid Box Community
Ten years ago, I was sitting at my kitchen table when I saw the image of Alan Kurdi—the young Syrian boy whose tragic death, along with that of his family, shook the world. I remember the overwhelming sorrow and urgency I felt in that moment. Over the following days, as I read more about the mass displacement of people around the world and those stranded in refugee camps in France, I felt a visceral need to act. I researched what I could do and reached out on social media to friends for help—and what happened next was extraordinary. Friends, neighbours, and strangers from across Bristol came together—and Aid Box Community was born.
The past ten years have been a journey of contrasts. It’s been a steep learning curve—figuring out how to run and grow an organisation while trying to balance family life with this vocation. There’s been deep pain in witnessing struggle and heartbreak, but also immense joy and hope in meeting so many incredible people—both those who use our service and the volunteers who give their time so generously.
I never imagined I’d find myself developing and leading a charity of this size. There have been tears, exhaustion, moments of burnout, and times when I felt I couldn’t go on. But throughout it all, the dedication of so many amazing people—volunteers, staff, and supporters, without whom ABC would not exist—has helped build something truly heart-warming and hopeful.
What began with eight vans full of donations, including 350 “Aid Boxes,” convoying to a refugee camp in Dunkirk—and then nine months attending to the basic needs of people there while raising funds and spreading awareness—has grown into something truly special.
We’ve created a space in Bristol where people who’ve fled war and persecution can find not just essentials, but warmth, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Our Free Shop supported over 4,000 people last year alone, distributing more than 400,000 donated items—thanks to the generosity of this incredible community. Many of our 350+ volunteers live right here in Bishopston and St Andrews.
Now, as we mark our 10th anniversary, we’re stepping into a new chapter—and a new home—at St Bart’s Hall, just off St Andrews Park. It feels like a full-circle moment. This much-loved local space, which has hosted everything from birthday parties to choir rehearsals, will now become a welcoming hub for people rebuilding their lives.
It’s more than just a building. It’s a place where cultures meet, friendships form, and people feel seen and valued. The mix of languages, stories, and experiences that fill our space every day brings so much joy and meaning in a world that too often brings harm.
We’re excited to welcome our new neighbours and invite you—our neighbours, supporters, and friends—to a public meeting on Thursday September 11, from 6-7.30pm, at St Bart’s Hall. It’ll be a chance to meet the team, hear powerful stories from the people we support, and find out how you can get involved in our work.
Then, on Tuesday October 8, we’ll be celebrating 10 years of Aid Box Community with an open day and community party—everyone is welcome to join us for a joyful day of connection, reflection, and celebration.
As we prepare to move, we’re also reaching out for help. We’re looking for more volunteers, item donations, and financial contributions to help make our new space feel like home. Every contribution, big or small, makes a real difference.
Ten years on, that visceral feeling that started it all is still with me. We continue to stand in solidarity with those who have been displaced—and I’m endlessly grateful to everyone who has helped make this community what it is today.
Imogen@aidboxcommunity.co.uk
+44 7870 645605
www.aidboxcommunity.co.uk