Trust raises a record total in Christmas appeal (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Trust raises a record total in Christmas appeal

1:20pm Tuesday 7th February 2012 in News By Zoe Forsey

Kind donations from residents in Harpenden have helped a voluntary organisation raise over £30,000 to support vulnerable people living in the town.

The Harpenden Trust collected £33,000 during last year’s Christmas Appeal, which will offer a helping hand to those in need over the next 12 months.

Graham Westwell, chairman of the Christmas Appeal Committee was overwhelmed with the amount of money raised.

He said: "I just couldn’t believe it.

"It is hard to express how grateful we are.

"Without it I don’t know what most people would do - they would be so desperate."

All the money raised by the trust goes to support individuals and families in the area who are short on cash.

After a series of assessments, needy residents could receive money to help them buy food, school uniforms and many other things that are taken for granted in day to day life.

One of the trust’s most recent projects is based on school trips, with the concept that all pupils should have the opportunity to go on educational based outings.

The trust offers money to families on lower incomes, who may not be able to afford the trips, so that their children do not miss out.

During the appeal, which ran from December 8 2011 until January 8 2012, more than 200 volunteers delivered envelopes to houses across the town.

Generous residents then filled them with donations that were collected back in later in the month.

Mr Westwell added: "When you see the results it is all worthwhile.

"People are losing their jobs and short of money so they need us to help them out."

The appeal was first set up in 1952, and has grown to become bigger and better every year since.