Boxes of Basics Reg. Charity No. 1186215 BoxÈsolBasks Boxes of Basics Reg. Charity No. IL86215 Boxes of Basic ststement of Financial Activities Accounts period ending 37.05.2023 ## _**CONTENTS**_ _Contents_ _Message from the Chair_ _Trustees Report_ _Independent Examiner’s Report_ ## _Statement of Financial Accounts_ _Notes to Financial Statements_ ## _**MESSAGE OF THE CHAIR:**_ _As we reflect on the past year, it’s evident that we’ve faced unprecedented challenges. The rising cost of living has placed a significant burden on families, even those with double incomes. In the midst of these difficulties, however, I am proud to share that our organization has persevered, thanks to the unwavering support of our partners._ _Together, we have risen to the challenge and remained steadfast in our commitment to serving our community. Despite the obstacles, we have continued to uphold our mission of providing essential food assistance to those in need, ensuring that no one in our community goes hungry._ _I am thrilled to announce that, with the support of our dedicated partners, we have been able to provide food assistance to a remarkable 794 individuals this past year. Each of these individuals has received not only sustenance but also the dignity and respect they deserve._ _This accomplishment is a testament to the power of collaboration and the generosity of our supporters. It is through your kindness and commitment that we have been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of so many._ _As we look ahead, we know that there will be new challenges to face. However, I am confident that with our continued partnership and dedication, we will overcome whatever obstacles come our way._ _On behalf of the entire organization, I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support. Together, we are making a difference in our community, one meal at a time._ **----- Start of picture text -----**
Trustees
Report
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Boxes of Basics was established in 2019 to alleviate hunger and deprivation resulting from poverty by providing boxes of basic food and household essentials to people in financial hardship. Our core user groups are young families and adolescents. Our focus is on relieving poverty directly, as a preventative measure to the emotional and social insecurities that develop subsequently. The food packages we deliver not only alleviates hunger of families contending with food insecurity but provide a sense of security and stability for the most vulnerable of society. According to the UN Special Rapporteur, poverty affects 14 million people in the UK—a fifth of the population. Four million of these are more than 50% below the poverty line, and 1.5 million are destitute, unable to afford essentials. Poverty is not only dignity depriving; It can crush individual confidence, hope, and ambition. It stifles people’s ability to participate in our society. It means waking up every day facing insecurity, uncertainty, and impossible decisions about money. To make matters worse, one in seven councils have discontinued their emergency funds. The poor are left to compromise ever more. Unfortunately, poverty is the devastating reality of one in four children in the UK. Our main activities are preparing and distributing food packages to people in a financial crisis. Whilst retaining a general scope, we modify the food according to the age, family size, cultural and dietary requirements of our users. ## _**Our Mission**_ Our mission is to end hunger in London. We aim to provide a discreet, efficient, and compassionate service to anyone in crisis. When their immediate needs are taken care of, they have the peace of mind to look for new jobs, opportunities and make positive decisions for a better tomorrow. ## _**Our Vision**_ No one can thrive on an empty stomach. But harder than nourishing the body is fuelling the self-esteem. At Boxes of Basics support never compromise dignity, which is fundamental for functional independence and emotional and social wellbeing. ## _**Our Values**_ - No one should go to sleep hungry. - Anyone who reaches out for help needs it; we do not turn anyone down. - Boxes of Basics aims to provide support that beneficiaries can depend on in crisis but encourages self-sufficiency in the long term. ## _**Feedback from our Clients:**_ _“The food bank has been a lifeline for my family during tough times. It’s not just about the meals; it’s about the hope it gives us for a better tomorrow.” - Sarah T. “I used to feel ashamed to ask for help, but the food bank has shown me that there’s strength in reaching out. I’m thankful for their compassion and understanding.” - John D. “When I walk through the doors of the food bank, I’m greeted with smiles and warmth. It’s more than just a distribution center; it’s a sanctuary of support and love.”_ _- Robert H._ _“The volunteers at the food bank are like angels in disguise. Their kindness and support make us feel valued and cared for in our time of need“_ _Emily H._ _“In a world where it’s easy to feel forgotten, the food bank reminds us that there are still people who care. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for their generosity“_ _David M._ ## **Reserve Policy** The Trustees aim to maintain unrestricted funds, which are the free reserves of the Charity at a level of at least three months running costs and up to one year’s running costs. The Trustees are pleased to have achieved a level of reserves for the Charity this past year, in accordance with their aim. ## **Risk Assessments** The trustees have assessed the risks to which the charity is exposed, particularly those related to the operations and finances of the charity and are satisfied with the prudent procedures in place to mitigate the organization’s exposure to those risks. Trustees actively review possible day to day challenges and are prepared to take the required measures to resolve any issue that arises. Charity law requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of charity’s financial position and of the profit or loss of the charity for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to: ## **STATEMENT OF TRUSTEE’S RESPONSIBILITIES** - **Select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently.** - **Make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent.** **• Prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charity will continue in its activities** **The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charity and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Charities Act 2016. There is no audit requirement for the charity. An independent examiner’s report will be prepared by De Claron Ltd.** ## **AUDITOR ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD SIGNED:** ## Usher Mann **Trustee** _15/03/2024 Boxes of Basics For the Period Ending 31 May 2021_ ## A **Snapshot** of our Year: including **487 749** individuals supported children **76** users referred for debt advice and support **1846** food boxes delivered **----- Start of picture text -----**
devoted
volunteers
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INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S UNQUALIFIED REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF BOXES AND BASICS LTD Independent Examlner's Report to the Trustees of Boxes and Baslcs Ltd I report on the accounts of the Charity for the year ended 31 March 2021, which are set out on pages 9 to ii. Respective responsibilities of trustees and examiner I he charity s trustees are responsible tor the preparation ot the accounts. I he charity s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act)) and that an independent examination is needed. It is my responsibikn'ty to . examine the accounts (under the 2011 Acti". . to follow the procedures laid down in the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners lunder the 2011 Actl". and . to state whether particular matters have come to my attention. Basls of Independent examlner's report My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commissioners. An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from you as trustees concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit. and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the view given by the accounts. Independent examlner's statement In connection with my examination. no matter has come to my attention.. which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements . to k&p accounting records in accordance with the 2006 ACL and . to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records and comply with the accounting requirements ofthe 2006 Act have not been met.. or 121 to which. In my opinion. attention Shouia be arawn In oraer to enable a proper understanding of the accounts lo be reached. De Claron Ltd. 3a The Vale LONDON Nwii 8SB' 31/03/2024 ## ‘Why our clients reached out to us’: **----- Start of picture text -----**
Unstable Housing
8%
Cultural and Linguistic Barriers
10%
Financial Hardship
28%
Benefit Delays and Cuts
16%
Medical Crisis
16%
Redundancy
8%
Mental Health Crisis
14%
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## **FROM VULNERABILITY TO STABILITY** ## _Boxes of Basics Charitable Trust - y/e 31.05.2023_ ## **Draft Statement of Financial Activities** y/e 31.05.2023 ||Unrestricted
Fund|Restricted Fund|**Total Funds**| |---|---|---|---| ||£|£|**£**| |**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM**|||| |DONATIONS and LEGACIES|80,606.00|-|**80,606.00**| |INTEREST RECEIVED|||**-**| ||80,606.00|-|**80,606.00**| |**EXPENDITURE ON**|||| |CLOTHING AND HOUSEHOLD ITEMS|||**-**| |EMERGENCY HELP SCHEME|||**-**| |FEEDING HUNGRY CHILDREN||11,425.00|| |FOOD BOXES||24,352.18|**24,352.18**| |FOOD BOXES DISTRIBUTION||18,319.50|**18,319.50**| |HELPING HAND SCHEME||7,067.10|**7,067.10**| |OFFICE EXPENSES|4,572.79||**4,572.79**| |ACCOUNTANCY|1,848.00||**1,848.00**| |LOAN INTEREST PAID|-||| ||6,420.79|61,163.78|**56,159.57**| |**NET RECEIVED**|74,185.21|)61,163.78(|**24,446.43**| |**TOTAL FUNDS BROUGHT FORWARD**|38,891.03|)50,416.98(|**)11,525.95(**| |**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**|113,076.24|)111,580.76(|**12,920.48**| ## **Draft Statement of Financial Activities (2)** **----- Start of picture text -----**
y/e 31.05.2022
Unrestricted Restricted Fund Total Funds
Fund
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|
|
Fund||
| |---|---|---|---| ||£|£|**£**| |**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM**|||| |
DONATIONS and LEGACIES|55,166.29|29,278.62|**84,444.91**| |INTEREST RECEIVED|||**-**| ||84,444.91|-|**84,444.91**| |**EXPENDITURE ON**|||| |
CLOTHING AND HOUSEHOLD ITEMS|1,509.00|3,196.84|**4,705.84**| |
EMERGENCY HELP SCHEME|11,553.87|9,843.66|**21,397.53**| |FEEDING HUNGRY CHILDREN|||**-**| |
FOOD BOXES|21,490.23|5,841.75|**27,331.98**| |
FOOD BOXES DISTRIBUTION|8,908.96|820.80|**9,729.76**| |HELPING HAND SCHEME|||**-**| |
OFFICE EXPENSES|1,744.17|377.10|**2,121.27**| |
ACCOUNTANCY|360.00||**360.00**| |
LOAN INTEREST PAID|139.93||**139.93**| ||45,706.16|20,080.15|**65,646.38**| |**NET RECEIVED**|38,738.75|)20,080.15(|**18,658.60**| |**TOTAL FUNDS BROUGHT FORWARD**|152.28|)30,336.83(|**)30,184.55(**| |**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**|38,891.03|)50,416.98(|**)11,525.95(**| ## **Draft Balance Sheet** **----- Start of picture text -----**
y/e 31.05.2023 y/e 31.05.2023
Unrestricted Fund Restricted Fund Unrestricted Fund Restricted Fund
TANGIBLE ASSETS - -
CURRENT ASSETS
DEBTORS - -
CASH IN HAND & AT BANK 143,361.73 132,590.30
BANK a/c 93263487 77,109.63 77,109.63
BANK a/c 03087182 9,626.00
BANK a/c 90721883 56,626.10 55,480.67
143,361.73 132,590.30
CURRENT LIABILITIES
LOAN CREDITORS 44,542.75 44,542.75
OTHER CREDITORS 97,323.50 99,573.50
141,866.25 144,116.25
NET FUNDS 1,495.48 (11,525.95)
FUND ACCOUNT
UNRESTRICTED FUNDS 113,076.24 81,975.99
RESTRICTED FUNDS (111,580.76) (93,501.94)
1,495.48 (11,525.95)
(0.00) (0.00)
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Making a difference, one box , ata time. f Basics Boxes of Basics Boxes Of ndnessl 'Boxes of Basics, is a charity. passionate to help families and children living with food poverty. As our name declares. we provide boxes of basic food and household essentials. We are a first point of contact for individuals or families in crisis. Boxes of Basics Reg. Charity No. 1186215