Community spirit shines as local groups unite for annual festive fundraiser
The spirit of local cooperation is taking centre stage as numerous community organizations and charities prepare for the return of the annual Santa Sleigh. Organised by Hemel Hempstead Rotary, this yearly initiative spreads festive cheer across areas including Hemel Hempstead, Kings Langley, and Abbots Langley, while raising thousands for local causes.
Since its inception ten years ago, the annual sleigh activity has successfully raised more than £130,000 for local charities and organisations. This achievement is only possible thanks to the collaborative effort involving dozens of dedicated "Santa’s helpers," who join Rotary elves to assist with the street collections.
This year promises to be especially busy, with the sleigh scheduled to travel along 25 routes and appear at nine local venues. The upcoming collections, which begin on Saturday, November 22nd, in Adeyfield North, rely heavily on volunteers from groups across the area, ensuring funds are channelled back into the community.
Examples of the groups partnering with Rotary as 'Santa's helpers' for various routes include local educational bodies such as Hobletts Manor School PTA and Gade Valley School PTA; charitable institutions like Dacorum Mencap, Sunnyside Rural Trust, and Riding for the Disabled; and various community hubs, including the Liberty Tea Rooms and Community Hub, and the Repair Shed. Churches, like Holy Trinity Leverstock Green and St Mary’s Apsley and St Benedicts Churches, also lend support, highlighting the broad-based commitment to the initiative.
The collection runs typically take place between 17:30 and 19:30 on weeknights and weekends. Residents wishing to find out when the sleigh will be visiting their street can check the full calendar and route maps available on the dedicated website. Donations can be made by dropping coins into the buckets or donating by card, or by texting specific amounts (e.g., text HEMELSANTA2 to 70085 to donate £2). Every visit helps Rotary raise funds for local charities and good causes.
Find out more here www.hemelsantasleigh.co.uk