The Harpenden Trust is calling for the generosity of all Harpenden residents to help those in need locally from today (3 December), as it launches its 2020 Christmas Appeal.
2020 has been a difficult year for many and the Harpenden Trust has been actively helping those in need throughout. At the start of the pandemic, supporting the Harpenden Cares initiative, the Trust set up the Harpenden Cares Contact Centre, answering over 2,000 calls from those in need in many areas – both practically and emotionally.
While there was already a strong need for befriending in Harpenden from lonely and isolated people, throughout lockdown that demand grew rapidly. In 2020 the Harpenden Trust arranged befriending for over 60 residents, with that number continuing to grow. This year the Harpenden Trust has provided financial and practical support to the Harpenden community, with some 565 visits to local families and residents, supporting them with aspects such as food costs, school uniforms and essential appliances. In addition, the Trust has delivered over 140 Christmas Parcels and provided utility bill grants to 80 residents in need.
Richard Nichols, Chairman of the Harpenden Trust, said:
“We are delighted to be able to launch our 2020 Christmas Appeal. Given this difficult year, there are more people across Harpenden needing help than ever before. We are calling for our fellow Harpenden residents to give generously to our Christmas Appeal so we can continue to support those in need in our community, in the coming year and beyond.”
The Christmas Appeal is naturally more limited this year given the current restrictions as to what can be done, as the Harpenden Trust carefully follow advice from the Fundraising Regulator. There are however many ways to make a donation, including the envelopes delivered to Harpenden residents, online at www.theharpendentrust.org.uk, QR code and contactless. You can also drop envelopes with donations at Jelley’s, The Goode Kitchen and Total Looks in Harpenden, as well as the Harpenden Trust Centre directly. To donate by phone, simply call the Harpenden Trust on weekdays between 10am and 1pm on 01582 460457 to donate by debit or credit card. To donate £5, £10 or £20 by text, simply text HARPT5, HARPT10 or HARPT20 to 70085.
There will also be a street collection in Harpenden on the 19th December 2020.
Look out for the Harpenden Trust Appeal envelope dropping through your door soon!
03 December 2020
