Acts 435

Acts 435 is a UK-based charity founded in 2009 by the then Archbishop of York, Right Reverend Dr John Sentamu, who remains its patron. It operates as an online giving platform that connects individual donors directly with people in urgent need across the UK, working exclusively through a vetted network of partner churches and local charities. These partners nominate trained Advocates to identify and post specific crisis requests. Rooted in Christian faith—inspired by Acts 4:35—its mission addresses gaps in statutory and mainstream support with immediate, dignified aid. Core values include transparency (donors choose recipients), 100% of donations to beneficiaries (admin covered by Gift Aid), personal encouragement, generosity, and local partnerships, delivering fast impact: over £7 million has helped 59,000+ individuals as of 2024.

It funds one-off emergency relief for acute material crises like homelessness, domestic violence, illness, debt, unemployment, disability, family breakdown, or migration. Support covers practical needs such as food, utility bills, rent top-ups, white goods, beds, school uniforms, clothing, and transport for diverse beneficiaries—including refugees, single parents, disabled people, care leavers, and those post-justice system involvement—prioritising dignity and relational impact over projects.

Eligible applicants are exclusively UK-registered charities or community groups that register as partners, undergo vetting and Advocate training; no unsolicited applications or self-referrals. UK-wide focus with no regional or income limits, favouring grassroots/small-medium organisations demonstrating direct client knowledge.

Typical grants are £150 or less (up to £200 exceptionally), disbursed rolling via partner portal dashboard, fulfilled in days/weeks based on donor response. Exclusions: no core costs, projects, capital, or capacity building—only individual, named-need aid. Distinctive for radical donor-directed transparency, speed, and Christian ethos without beneficiary religious restrictions.