ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity established in 2000 by the Rotary Club of Helston, Cornwall, UK, that provides emergency shelter and other aid items to families around the world who have lost their homes to disaster or conflict.

To mark the 20th anniversary of ShelterBox the Rotary Club of Hitchin Tilehouse is planning to purchase 20 ShelterBoxes at an approximate cost of £12,000; this generous donation of £590 from Shephard & Akay Optometrists of Churchyard, Hitchin brings the total number of ShelterBoxes purchased so far to 10.

Ali Akay of Shephard & Akay and a Tilehouse member, commented "ShelterBox does amazing work with families caught up in conflict around the world, offering emergency shelter and other essential items to support them in rebuilding their lives. As a local business we are glad of this opportunity to assist."

As Tilehouse member and project co-lead Stella Farr explained "While recently Tilehouse have been focusing our efforts on the local community, COVID-19 has added immense further pressure to devastated communities which, without the luxury of a safe environment to work and live in, are much more vulnerable to diseases such as coronavirus."

If you'd like further information or are able to make a donation, please click here.