Members from the Rotary Club of Hitchin Tilehouse have helped raise an incredible £12k to help a charity committed to helping disaster-affected families vulnerable to coronavirus.

Hitchin Tilehouse has a track record of backing ShelterBox, through the wonderful support of our local community, schools, and youth groups.

ShelterBox is a charity that supports those who have lost everything as a result of natural disaster, climate change or war - as well as the ongoing Covid crisis.

To mark the 20th anniversary of ShelterBox, the Rotary Club of Hitchin Tilehouse has raised a staggering £12,000 to fund 20 'ShelterBoxes' - containing a range of items the charity sends to help families in disaster situations.

This target was reached recently with the help of generous donations from club members, family, friends and the local community.

One of those members is Lucia Melillo of Lucia Hair and Beauty in Luton, who raised an amazing £1,800 by running a quiz night fundraiser which was generously supported by her customers and friends.

"I am passionate about supporting those in need and have been completing fundraising challenges since 1995," Lucia said, explaining that this included treks and an annual indoor fundraiser, such as this year's themed fancy-dress quiz.

"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.

"I am proud to have played a part in helping Tilehouse to reach our target."

In the run-up to Christmas, Tilehouse continues to focus our efforts on the local community, although Covid has added immense further pressure to devastated communities.

As Tilehouse member and project co-lead Stella Farr explained: "Without the luxury of a safe environment to work and live in, these communities are much more vulnerable to diseases such as coronavirus."

If you'd like further information about the work of ShelterBox or would like to make a donation which will make a huge difference to someone's life, visit www.shelterbox.org