Community Projects

Pitstop

Our current opening times are:

  • Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 9am–12pm
  • Every second Thursday: 5pm–7pm
  • Every second Sunday: 10am–2pm

Pitstop is a volunteer-run, donation-based community project based at St Edmund’s Hall on Langer Road, Felixstowe.

Everything we have is donated to us free of charge by members of the public, which means that everything we receive can be rehomed free of charge too.

Pitstop was founded by Reverend Penny Brinkley, with the support of Reverend Andrew Dotchin, with a simple vision: to help and support the local community.

We offer a wide range of donated items, including buggies, nappies, milk, toys, books, games, blankets, shoes and electrical items. Our clothing currently ranges from maternity wear and tiny baby through to adult sizes.

Throughout the year, we also hold a number of free community events. Our annual Summer and Christmas parties are always popular occasions, bringing people together to enjoy games, music, crafts and free hot food. During these events, we also raise funds to support Pitstop through tombola and hamper stalls.

Everything is freely given, freely shared and intended to help our local community.

Parish Pantry

Parish Pantry is a free community pantry based at St Edmund’s Church on Langer Road, Felixstowe. Offering a range of food and household essentials, the pantry is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am–11am, and Sundays from 8.45am–9.45am. It welcomes anyone in need of a little extra support. Visitors are asked to bring their own bags, and donations are always welcome to help support this valuable community resource.

Lark Rise Retreats

Lark Rise Retreats offers a variety of retreat days and events, providing a welcoming space where individuals can step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, find rest and quiet, and spend time in the presence of God.

As life becomes increasingly busy, it can be difficult to make time simply to be with God. Our retreat days offer an opportunity to pause, step away from everyday demands and rest quietly. We aim to create a space where people can simply be — without feeling guilty that they should be doing something else.

We are also passionate about encouraging people to explore their creativity. Through creative activities and reflection, we hope to help people discover that it is not the finished result that matters, but the process itself and the time spent with God along the way.

Whether you are seeking spiritual growth, a deeper sense of connection with God, or simply a moment of peace and tranquillity, Lark Rise Retreats warmly welcomes you.

Messy Church

Messy Church offers free Bible-based crafts, activities and a delicious shared meal, creating a fun and welcoming space for children and young people to explore faith. Although it is particularly aimed at children and young people, everyone is welcome.

Messy Church is held at St John the Baptist Church on the first Wednesday of each month at 3.45pm.

Come along, get creative, enjoy a delicious meal and discover more about God together!

Messy Church – After School Church Cafe

Our Messy Church – After School Church Café takes place at St Edmund’s Church from 3.30pm on the middle Thursday of each month.

Come along after school for arts, crafts, SEN-friendly sensory activities and resources, followed by a delicious meal together at Pitstop.

It’s a relaxed, welcoming space for children and families to get creative, have fun, enjoy good food and connect with others.

📅 Please check our social media for the exact date each month.

Everyone is welcome!