“The Winter Beds Project has always been a volunteer led service and this year, despite the challenging circumstances we all find ourselves in, we have an amazing group of dedicated
volunteers who are all ready to make sure no one in St Albans has to sleep rough this winter.”
Inside one of the pods which will be used by homeless people in St Albans.
- Credit: Nic Madge
Emmaus Hertfordshire chief executive John Chesters said: “We provide a home to people who have experienced homelessness, and many of them have slept rough over the winter months. Their experiences are heartbreaking, and it’s unbelievable to think that it’s still an issue in the UK in 2021.
Some of the postboxes found around St Albans.
- Credit: Chris Bennett
This year s St Albans Postboxes charity fundraiser has smashed past the £25,000 barrier to become the most successful yet.
For the third year, 50-plus knitted festive toppers could be found on postboxes around the city centre in the run-up to Christmas, and encouraged online donations to St Albans and District Foodbank and Open Door St Albans.
With the city facing swiftly tightening pandemic restrictions,
St Albans Postboxes.
- Credit: Chris Bennett
families embraced the opportunity to enjoy a Covid-safe outdoor activity, and this year s initiative has so far raised £25,120.95, including Gift Aid.
50 postboxes make up the festive trail, which people can follow around St Albans
- Credit: Chris Bennett
Organisers of this year s postbox Christmas trail are overwhelmed by the support of the people of St Albans which has helped them come close to their colossal fundraising target.
As St Albans moved quickly from Tier 2 to Tier 3 and then Tier 4, residents could take part in a COVID safe, family-friendly activity - walking and running outside to find as many of the 50 decorated postboxes as possible.
There have been many collages of postbox toppers shared, including some by people who have visited all 50. The campaign has had a huge reach and has brought joy and cheer to the people of St Albans, which is also reflected in the number of donations received.