About Us
Rooted in Kindness. Grown through Community.
Our Story
The Semilong Community Exchange began quietly, from the front room of our founder Jo’s home in 2018. It started with a simple idea: sharing what we had with those who needed it — no forms, no judgment, just kindness.
From February 2023 to July 2025, we worked in partnership with Community Spaces Northampton, helping to run inclusive community hubs across the town. That experience shaped our approach and showed us just how powerful community connection can be.
Now, we’re taking the next step. In 2025, we began setting up as a Community Interest Company (CIC), expanding the Semilong Exchange into the local community — with a vision of creating a welcoming, accessible space for everyone.
Our Values
At Semilong Community Exchange, we believe:
- Everyone matters. Whatever your story, you’re welcome here.
- Giving and receiving should be equal acts of dignity.
- Support should be simple. No hoops, no hurdles.
- Community is built in cups of tea, kind conversations, and shared moments.
This isn’t charity. It’s community — shared, lived, and local.
What Makes Us Different
We’re not a food bank, a shop, or a drop-in service — but you’ll find some of each here.
We offer:
- A donation exchange, where you can take what you need and give what you don’t
- Free hot drinks and light refreshments — always available
- A warm, no-pressure space to sit, talk, and connect
- Support, signposting, and an open ear when life feels heavy
There’s no catch. No forms. No expectations. Just space for everyone.
Our Vision
This is just the beginning.
As we grow, we hope to become a fully-fledged Support & Sharing Space, offering meaningful opportunities for connection, learning, and community care, including:
- Regular pop-ups and community sessions
- Skills workshops and social groups
- Visiting advisors to help with housing, benefits, wellbeing, and more
- Volunteer opportunities that empower and uplift
Everything we do is built around kindness, dignity, and real human connection — because that’s what makes a community thrive.
Who We Are
Jo Morris
Founder | Community Coordinator
“I started the Exchange because I knew how hard it can be to ask for help — and how powerful it is when someone says, ‘You’re welcome here.’”
You’ll also find a growing group of local volunteers, neighbours, and friends behind everything we do. Together, we’re building something special — and you’re invited.