Meet the members: CCA

At Reuse Network, we love shining a light on the people and organisations making a difference by giving pre-loved items a second life. One of those incredible organisations is Christian Community Action Ministries (CCA), based in Reading. Their work is about so much more than furniture and white goods – it’s about dignity, community, and hope.

We recently spoke with Clarie Lewis, Head of Operations at CCA, to hear more about her journey and the impact of their work.

Restoring hope through reuse

“My name is Clarie Lewis, and I have had the privilege of serving as Head of Operations for Christian Community Action Ministries for almost two years,” Clarie shares.

But her connection to CCA goes back much further. Fifteen years ago, Clarie herself was in need, and CCA was there for her. That experience shaped her deeply:

“I know firsthand what it means to walk through those doors at your lowest point, and I will never forget the dignity, hope, and practical help I received.”

Today, Clarie leads with empathy, overseeing safeguarding, HR, mental wellbeing, and compliance. At the heart of her role is a simple mission: ensuring every individual who turns to CCA feels seen, valued, and supported.

And the very items they reuse and recycle carry a special meaning:

“What makes our work so beautiful is its dual purpose. The recycled furniture and white goods we supply are not only strong, durable, and better made than many modern alternatives – they also embody stewardship of God’s creation. By reusing and restoring, we protect the environment while transforming lives. Every sofa, every fridge, every table is more than an item – it’s a piece of hope, a reminder that care and compassion can be woven into even the most practical of things.

Providing hope and community through reuse

CCA runs four community-focused charity shops across Reading, each helping to make a difference to the lives of local people.

• 3 Clothing & Bric-a-Brac Shops – These provide affordable items and thanks to the generosity of CCA supporters, the charity is able to offer free clothing vouchers for refugee families referred by partner agencies. Each family can choose up to 10 items of clothing and footwear, helping them to feel settled, confident, and supported in their new community.
• Furniture Shop – Tackles furniture poverty, providing essential items for people on low incomes, while also promoting sustainability by saving good-quality furniture from landfill.
• Volunteering Opportunities – The shops give people the chance to gain skills, build confidence, and form connections – helping combat loneliness and isolation.

Together, these spaces are far more than retail outlets. They are places of hope and belonging, making a real difference to people’s lives every day.

The Impact of pre-loved furniture and white goods

In 2024, thanks to the generosity of its community and the hard work of its team, CCA Home made a real difference in people’s lives and for our planet in these ways.

• 253 Referrals – from trusted organisations and agencies, ensuring the most vulnerable received vital support.
• 659 Self-referrals – families and individuals on benefits or low income who found hope, dignity, and a helping hand through us.
• 3,200 Essential Items Delivered & Sold – from beds to cookers, tables to wardrobes, turning empty spaces into welcoming homes.
• 64 Tons of Furniture Saved from Landfill – protecting our environment and proving that sustainability and compassion go hand-in-hand.

Christian Community Actions Ministries is unique in our local area because our mission is to help those free themselves from furniture poverty.

“Every number tells a story of resilience, sustainability, and second chances. Together, we’re not just furnishing homes – we’re rebuilding lives and protecting our planet.”

Transforming lives

Perhaps the most powerful testimony to CCA’s work comes from those who have been supported. One mother, who fled domestic violence, shared her story:

“I stood in our new permanent accommodation and cried. I told my children it was a new adventure, but the truth was – it was just an empty shell. No flooring, no white goods, nothing. The council referred us to CCA. I called them with an angry, defiant voice, expecting another charity just ticking boxes. But instead, I was met with kindness. The lady on the phone told me it was brave to ask for help – and foolish not to.

She listened. She understood. She walked me through the process and helped me get the essentials. Slowly, CCA helped me build a home. Whenever I felt down, I called her – and she was there. Two years later, I’m stronger. My kids are flourishing. People say CCA just provides furniture. That’s not true. They gave me hope. They kept me warm and safe in my darkest place. Thank you, CCA.”

The Power of Volunteering

CCA’s work is supported by a team of up to 70 volunteers. One of them, Chris Ambrose, has been part of CCA since 2011. His journey shows just how life-changing volunteering can be:

“Back then, I was lazy, unhealthy, and drifting with no direction. But through CCA, I found purpose. I started believing in myself again, reconnecting with God, and feeling part of something bigger. To me, CCA isn’t just a charity – it’s my second family. The truth is simple: CCA saved my life.”

More than furniture

From restoring lives to protecting the planet, CCA demonstrates the power of reuse in action. As Clarie so beautifully puts it:

“At Christian Community Action Ministries, we don’t just save resources – we help save lives. And I am honoured, every single day, to be part of that calling.”

CCA has shops across Reading; you can find them in these locations. Take a visit today!