Behind the parks and the grid, Milton Keynes has a big heart: hundreds of local charities, community groups and thousands of volunteers. Whether you want to give some time, support a cause, or you need a hand yourself, these are some of the organisations that keep the city connected.
MK Food Bank shelves are running low
How to donate, where the drop-off points are, and how to get an emergency food parcel — plus the Mayor's 103,000-item challenge. Read more →
MK Life articles →
Stories, guides and community features from around the city — new articles added regularly.
DirectoryClubs, teams & groups →
Sport, fitness, social, hobbies, arts, motoring & kids — find a group or add your own.
DirectoryCharities & support →
Where to get help, and which local causes to support or volunteer with.
Community articles & features
In-depth local guides, appeals and stories from around Milton Keynes — added over time.
Milton Keynes food banks — how to help & get help
MK Food Bank is the Mayor's Charity of the Year and its shelves are running low — where to donate, the drop-off points, and how to get an emergency food parcel.
Age UK Milton Keynes — help & support for older people
Free advice, befriending, day clubs and help at home for over-55s in MK — plus their Books That Care sports book fair on Sat 25 July. How to get support, and how to help.
All MK Life articles — news & features hub
Every article from the MK Life team in one place — the latest stories, guides and community features from around the city, updated as we publish.
Get involved & volunteer
Giving a few hours locally is one of the best ways to meet people and make a difference.
Community Action: MK
The city's volunteering hub — it matches residents to local volunteer roles and supports charities and community groups across MK.
The Parks Trust
The charity that cares for MK's 6,000 acres of green space, running conservation days, guided walks and outdoor volunteering.
MK Community Foundation
A grant-making charity funding local charities and community projects across Milton Keynes since 1986.
MK SNAP
A local charity supporting adults with learning disabilities to gain skills, confidence and independence.
Help & support
If you or someone you know needs a hand, these organisations are here to help.
Citizens Advice MK
Free, independent, confidential advice on debt, benefits, housing, immigration and family matters.
MK Food Bank
Emergency food and longer-term support for people in crisis across the city — and always in need of donations.
Willen Hospice
The adult hospice serving Milton Keynes, providing free specialist palliative and end-of-life care, largely funded by the community.
Milton Keynes City Council
Local services, bins, planning, schools and report-it tools for the city. The first stop for many council matters.
Community in Milton Keynes — FAQs
How do I volunteer in Milton Keynes?
Community Action: MK is the city's volunteering hub and matches residents to local roles. The Parks Trust also runs regular outdoor and conservation volunteering days across MK's parks and lakes.
Where can I get help in Milton Keynes?
Citizens Advice MK offers free, confidential advice; MK Food Bank provides emergency food and crisis support; and Willen Hospice provides specialist palliative care. For council services, contact Milton Keynes City Council.
What charities are based in Milton Keynes?
Local charities include The Parks Trust, MK Community Foundation, Community Action: MK, Citizens Advice MK, MK Food Bank, Willen Hospice and MK SNAP, among many more.
Explore more of Milton Keynes
Discover the city's attractions, events and free days out.
Things to do in MK →