TOOLS WITH A MISSION

Who we are

Who we are

Tools with a Mission (TWAM) is a Christian charity that collects unwanted usable tools, refurbishes them, sorts them into trade tool kits and sends them to the developing world for livelihood creation. In doing so, we also support UK communities through volunteering opportunities and contribute significantly to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and carbon emissions in the UK.

Through our 'local to global' model, we prevent nearly 400 tonnes of tools from crowding UK landfills annually and engage local communities, offering volunteering opportunities that nurture skills and foster social connections. The impact of our work resonates globally, as we supply refurbished tools to over 500 organisations in Sub-Saharan Africa. These tools equip individuals with the skills needed to completely transform their lives and communities. 

In the past year alone, we shipped 22 containers filled with 18,571 toolkits, creating approximately 50 livelihoods every single day.

We operate from two major Refurbishment Centres in Ipswich and Rugby, a smaller centre in Halstead, and five volunteer-led local groups. We also collaborate with independent centres, including Men’s Sheds, and are supported by a fleet of five vans, eight staff, and over 500 volunteers. Currently, we work in six Sub-Saharan African countries and are expanding our reach further.

Why we do it

We believe in empowering people, not creating dependency. The individuals and groups we support are already working hard to build better lives for themselves and their communities. They create self-sustaining businesses, training centres, and support networks—we simply give them the tools they need to get started.

Dignity comes from being able to provide for yourself and your family, not relying on handouts. That’s why we don’t offer financial aid—we provide skills and tools that enable lasting financial security. With the right resources, people can break free from poverty on their own terms, creating jobs, training others, and strengthening their communities.

Our motivation

We believe that God's heart reaches out to the poor and that He calls us to follow His example.  

“You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat.” — Isaiah 25:4 (NIV)

Our motivation is to be a refuge for the poor, a safe place to find support, hope, and dignity through the provision of tools and equipment.

The Impact

Our work is not only life-changing but also environmentally responsible. Each year, we divert hundreds of tonnes of tools from landfill and repurpose them to create thousands of jobs in Africa. Through income generation, families can afford education, food, and secure housing, leading to long-term community transformation.

Rather than offering direct financial aid, we focus on providing skills and tools that ensure lasting financial security. By working alongside African communities, we empower them to drive their own solutions to poverty.

TWAM is a great place to work and volunteer—a welcoming, purpose-driven community where people can make a real difference.