Bangers N' Mashups is a unique series of family-friendly raves in Birmingham that combine nostalgic music with community support. Open to all ages, these events feature classic old school tunes, balloons, glitter tattoos, face painting, and free fruit sundae stations for kids. More importantly, they raise vital funds for workshops that help families living in temporary housing across Birmingham and Sandwell eat healthily on a tight budget.
Sarah Ventre, a Birmingham mother and volunteer, witnessed firsthand the struggles families faced during the Covid pandemic while delivering food to thousands in need. When lockdowns ended, Sarah understood that the fight against food insecurity was far from over. In 2023, she founded Bangers N' Mashup CIC to host family raves that raise funds for ongoing support programs.
“Originally, it was just about feeding people,” says Sarah, a former street food vendor from Kings Norton. “But this is a systemic issue that demands continued action.”
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Partnering with the Aston Villa Foundation and local community centers, Bangers N' Mashup delivers food poverty projects that teach families practical, budget-friendly cooking methods, especially for those in temporary accommodations with limited kitchen access.
Upcoming events include a family rave on May 31 at Rowheath Pavilion in Bournville from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM, followed by summer, Halloween, and Christmas raves throughout the year. These events are packed with live music, photo booths, rave paint, and chill-out areas for babies. Affordable street food options are available, including kid-friendly meals.
Families appreciate the event’s inclusive, all-ages atmosphere. Sarah’s own children, aged nine and four, love dancing at the front of the crowd. “It’s not just for kids or held in nightclubs; it’s a daytime family celebration for everyone, from grandparents to aunts and uncles.”
Beyond the raves, Bangers N' Mashup CIC has donated communal air fryers to families in temporary housing and offers free cooking workshops. They also run play and food sessions for children and provide guidance for young care leavers navigating independent living. In some cases, they even host mini raves within temporary accommodations so families can enjoy music and meals together.
Sarah explains, “We often meet families during some of their toughest moments. Hearing that we make their lives easier and seeing them engage in our projects motivates us every day.”
The CIC also collaborates with Aston Villa to offer free food-related courses for people over 19, helping them gain qualifications and work experience in hospitality, including roles on food trucks during match days.
Small victories matter: teaching a young care leaver how to use a can opener can mean saving money and gaining independence. For Sarah and her team, these wins bring hope and highlight the meaningful impact of their work.