The Harpenden Trust announces a record-breaking total for its 2021 annual fundraising appeal, of over £68,000. The Christmas Appeal is the Harpenden Trust’s main revenue driver for its Care Fund and this year’s total surpasses that of any year previously. Donations to the Harpenden Trust have a big impact and enable its Care Fund to provide financial and practical support to local families and residents, with over 660 visits annually to assist with aspects including food costs, school uniforms and essential appliances.
With issues of isolation and loneliness increasing throughout the pandemic, the Harpenden Trust has also enabled befriending for over 70 local residents, 3 outings for 122 seniors annually and runs coffee mornings twice a week for those wishing to socialise. It has also provided utility grants for 80 local residents per year on low incomes, providing much needed support.
In addition, alongside MIND and local GP surgeries, the Trust has established the Harpenden Wellbeing Hub, running initiatives to support local residents with their wellbeing, including running and supporting the “Frazzled Café", currently running at the Eric Morecambe Centre.
The Trust also arranges family outings to support over 80 local families a year, who may not be in a position to go on them otherwise.
Richard Nichols, Chairman of the Harpenden Trust, said:
“We would not be able to deliver the fantastic work that goes on across the Harpenden Trust without the valued support of our local community who give so much, both in volunteering with us and donations. The fact that our Appeal total has yet again broken previous record amounts highlights the kindness and compassion we have for our neighbours here in Harpenden and we are thankful for the generosity of all who were able to donate.”
Lynn Kennedy, Appeal Director at the Harpenden Trust, said:
"We are very grateful to all donors who helped us raise such a remarkable amount, as well as the support given to us by our drop off points - Jelley’s Meats, Kinsbourne Green Post Office, Thompsons Close Café, TK Café, Total Looks, Soft Water and Whittaker & Co for their support. Huge thanks must also go to all the Area Organisers, Collectors, and other volunteers involved in the Christmas Appeal, for their time and commitment to making the Appeal such a success.”
The Trust has also played a key role in the local community, supporting the running of the Harpenden Vaccination Centre, involving over 500 volunteers. Additionally, the Trust has assisted over 12 local GP practices delivering and collecting oxygen monitors to and from local residents.
To see more on the fantastic work happening across the Harpenden Trust, please see the Harpenden Trust Film, showcasing the many ways we are helping people in need in Harpenden, here.
31 March 2022
