Family-Friendly Raves in Birmingham Raise Funds to Combat Food Poverty
Bangers N' Mashup CIC is hosting a series of family raves in Bournville, designed to bring generations together for fun while supporting critical food poverty projects across Birmingham and Sandwell. These events offer a unique blend of entertainment and philanthropy, inviting all ages to dance, play, and contribute to a worthy cause.
A Community Initiative Born from Pandemic Efforts
Sarah Ventre, a Birmingham mum from Kings Norton, founded Bangers N' Mashup CIC in 2023 after volunteering during the Covid-19 pandemic to deliver food to thousands of struggling families. When lockdowns ended, she recognized that food poverty remained a deep-rooted, systemic issue requiring ongoing support. Previously involved with Full of Chaat street food at Digbeth Dining Club, Sarah shifted her focus to fundraising through family-oriented events.
"Originally, it was just about feeding people," Sarah explained. "During Covid, we couldn't work, and when the government voted against free school meals, we started cooking meals for kids with hundreds of volunteers delivering them daily. But I realised this was more than just a Covid thing—it's a persistent problem that needs sustained action."
What to Expect at the Family Raves
The raves feature old-school and garage hits from the 1990s and 2000s, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for adults while keeping children engaged. Activities include:
- Balloons, glitter tattoos, and face painting
- Free fruit sundae stations for kids
- Live music and photo booths
- Chill-out areas for babies
- Reasonably priced kids' meals from street food vendors
Sarah emphasized the inclusive nature of the events: "A lot of feedback from families is they love the fact it is aimed at families—it's not just a kids' rave or held at a club. It's family-orientated for grannies, aunts, and uncles, and it's in the daytime." Her own children, aged nine and four, are enthusiastic participants, often dancing at the front.
Upcoming Events and Community Impact
The next rave is scheduled for May 31 at Rowheath Pavilion in Bournville, from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Additional events include a summer rave at Alfred Works on July 19, a summer holiday rave on August 31, a Halloween event on October 31, and a Christmas special on December 18. By partnering with venues and suppliers, Bangers N' Mashup CIC keeps ticket prices affordable for families.
Proceeds from these raves fund various initiatives, such as:
- Donating communal air fryers to families in temporary accommodation
- Running free workshops on air fryer cooking and economical meal planning
- Providing play and food sessions for children in temporary housing
- Offering advice to young care leavers on self-care and budgeting
- Hosting mini kids' raves in temporary accommodation to foster community
Sarah collaborates with the Aston Villa Foundation and community centres across Birmingham and Sandwell to deliver these projects. "We're often interacting with families at their lowest point, and the feedback they give us is that we're making their lives a lot easier," she said. "Some families have developed long-term relationships with us and now participate in other projects like Bring It On Brum holiday clubs."
Empowering Through Education and Support
Beyond immediate aid, Bangers N' Mashup CIC focuses on empowerment. For example, they assist Aston Villa in delivering free courses for over-19s, providing bespoke food qualifications and work experience on match-day food trucks to help individuals enter the hospitality industry. Sarah shared a touching story: "With the care leavers group, one didn't know how to use a tin opener. After we bought him a can opener and showed him how, he's saving money by not having to buy only ring-pull cans. It's all about the little wins and giving hope."
This initiative highlights how community-driven events can address pressing social issues while bringing joy to families. By combining entertainment with education and support, Bangers N' Mashup CIC is making a tangible difference in the fight against food poverty in the region.
