AYE Girvan Gives A Free Party To Celebrate Its Birthday

A Girvan charity working to tackle the root causes of poverty is marking its second anniversary by inviting the community to a free family celebration later this month.

AYE Girvan will host its birthday event on Saturday 21 March from 11am to 1pm at the Wave Hub on Dalrymple Street, with a packed programme including a disco, party games and entertainment for all ages.

Founding trustee Tanina Baronello said the event is an opportunity to bring people together and reflect on the progress made since the organisation launched.

She said the team is looking forward to welcoming families from across the town, adding that those who attended last year’s event will remember how special the occasion was.

AYE Girvan, which stands for Access Yields Empowerment, was set up by local residents who were witnessing increasing levels of poverty in the area and wanted to take meaningful action. Rather than focusing on a single issue, the group developed a range of practical, data-led initiatives aimed at removing barriers and supporting families in a dignified and sustainable way.

Since its launch, the charity has introduced several key services, including a hygiene bank providing essential toiletries, a baby milk bank for families with infants, and a flexible after-school club offering affordable childcare.

Alongside direct support, the organisation also works with businesses and third sector groups, delivering training on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child to help embed children’s rights into everyday practice.

The after-school club operates on a “pay what you can” basis, ensuring accessibility for all families while also supporting parents into employment or helping them increase their working hours. The initiative is already having a wider impact locally, employing five members of staff, the majority of whom are parents with childcare needs themselves.

Organisers say the anniversary event is not only a celebration of the charity’s achievements but also a recognition of the strength and resilience of the Girvan community, with residents encouraged to come along and take part in the day.