Welcome to Alfie's Arc

At Alfie's Arc, we are a family-run Community Interest Organisation located in Havant, dedicated to supporting our community through our food bank, mental health support, and a range of community-led initiatives.

Our organisation is named in memory of Alfie, the son of one of our founders, who sadly passed away at just 9 years old. "The Arc" symbolises the beginning of a circle - a new start - and with the support of our community and those we help, that circle continues to grow stronger every day.

What started as a simple idea driven by compassion and determination has grown into a passionate mission to make a real difference in people's lives. We believe that nobody should face hardship alone, and through kindness, understanding, and community spirit, we aim to create lasting positive change for everyone who reaches out to us.

Who we are

WHAT WE DO

Food Bank

We believe everyone should have access to essential groceries without barriers or judgement. That's why we provide support to anyone who needs it - with no referral required and only a small donation asked where possible.

By redistributing surplus food, we are also helping tackle the growing food waste crisis across the United Kingdom. Every item shared not only helps a local family or individual, but also prevents good food from going to waste.

At Alfie's Arc, community is at the heart of everything we do - offering support, kindness, and a welcoming space for everyone who may be struggling.

More info

One Step Project

We support the 'One Step Project' which is an organisation dedicated to providing compassionate mental health support through advice, signposting, and supportive community groups that help people take positive steps forward - one step at a time.

We understand that life can feel overwhelming, and no one should have to face those challenges alone. That's why we support their initiative to create a safe, welcoming environment where people feel listened to, supported, and included without judgement.

The One Step Project helps reduce isolation and promotes positive well-being within our community.

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Community Assistance

At Alfie's Arc, we are proud to support residents across our local community by providing essential food items through our community shop and outreach work.

We also work closely with assisted living accommodations, hostels, homeless shelters, and rough sleepers, helping ensure that those facing hardship have access to food and support when they need it most. This includes supporting individuals connected with The Salvation Army, Two Saints, and Society of St James premises.

Our aim is simple - to provide help with dignity, compassion, and care while strengthening the sense of community around us.

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Who Was Alfie?

St Mary's Hospital-born Alfie Cowley was born on 31st May 2008 to our Director, Lianne (Boo) Hutchins (was Cowley). From the very beginning, Alfie was a bright, energetic, and caring little boy with impeccable manners, a wicked sense of humour, and a heart full of kindness. He loved making people laugh and never hesitated to help others whenever he could.

In March 2015, just before his 7th birthday, Alfie was diagnosed with an extremely rare and aggressive form of brain cancer after suffering severe stabbing pains in his head for several weeks. Over the next two years and three months, Alfie endured more than most adults could ever imagine - six brain surgeries, nine lumbar punctures, months of daily radiotherapy at University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, and even proton beam therapy treatment in Oklahoma City for three months.

Despite every painful procedure, every setback, and every moment of fear, Alfie never lost his smile. He became known for his incredible bravery and his famous words:

"Get it done and It's done."

Even while facing his own battle, Alfie's concern was always for others. During long hospital stays, he would often worry about the other children more than himself, making sure they were okay and encouraging nurses to help them before him. His kindness, compassion, and strength touched everyone who met him.

Tragically, due to the aggressive nature of the cancer, it spread to Alfie's brain stem and spine, becoming incurable. Alfie passed away peacefully at home 24th June 2017, just four weeks after his 9th birthday, surrounded by his Mum, Sister, and Gran.

Because of Alfie's caring nature and selfless spirit, we knew it was only right to name our organisation in his honour. Alfie's Arc exists to continue the kindness, compassion, and support that Alfie showed every single day. If he were still with us today, we know he would be leading the way in everything we do.

His little sister, Maisy, proudly carries on his legacy with the same compassion and empathy for others, playing an integral role within Alfie's Arc and helping to continue her big brother's mission of supporting the community.

At Alfie's Arc, we live by the strength and resilience Alfie showed throughout his journey - always moving forward, never giving up, and facing challenges head-on, no matter how difficult they may seem.

"GET IT DONE AND IT'S DONE"

Alfie's Arc Charity Shop & Cafe

Why not pop down and visit us at our main community hub in Havant? At Alfie's Arc, we're more than just a charity shop - we're a welcoming space for the whole community to come together.

Browse our charity shop, enjoy a hot or cold drink, and grab something tasty to eat, including our infamous Jacket Potatoes that everyone loves!

As of April 2026 we are now based at the old Stella's Voice Building behind Sports Direct & Next in Havant.

23 Brockhampton Lane, Havant, PO9 1JB

Open Mondays - Saturdays 9:30 to 17:00 (Closed Sundays & Bank Holidays)

We are always grateful for donations, and every contribution helps us continue supporting local people and families in need.

Don't forget - Our food bank is available, so please ask if you need support.

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

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Frequently Asked Questions

We primarily serve within 10 miles of PO9 5AH (Havant, Hampshire).

We are able to deliver to other areas if we can get enough parcel requests on the same day in the same area up to 10 miles of PO9 5AH.

You can get involved by volunteering, donating, or participating in our community events and initiatives. Contact us for more details.

We offer one-on-one counselling, support groups, and workshops tailored to assist individuals facing mental health challenges in a compassionate and safe environment.