Local Charities, Council, and Business, Bring Santa to Town 

Community Action Dacorum is calling on local families to kick off the festive season this December at a unique fundraising event that showcases the power of local partnership: “Children write your Letter to Father Christmas!”. 

This special event, taking place at St. Mary’s Church in Old Town, Hemel Hempstead, on Saturday 13th December (10:30 am – 3:00 pm, is a perfect illustration of how the VCFSE sector, local government, and businesses can work collaboratively to positively impact everyone involved. 

Collaboration: The Heart of Community Action Dacorum 

The event is a fundraiser, where all proceeds go directly to small local charities. The funds raised will specifically support the Dacorum Mayor’s Future Fund, which Councillor Catherine McArevey uses during her term to support the “unsung heroes of our community — the small charities that quietly transform lives every day”. 

The planning and execution of this festive day, organised by Louise Cecil of Community Action Dacorum, are a testament to multi-sector cooperation: 

Charities and Community Groups Working Together 

The event brings together two key local charities: Community Action Dacorum and Dacorum Mencap. Community Action Dacorum actively supports member groups like Dacorum Mencap, whose members (adults with learning difficulties) often benefit from social connection, for example, by meeting up for a Chatter Table at The Roundhouse Community Hub. 

Community Action Dacorum’s overall mission is to improve the quality of life and well-being of people in its area of operation by working through member and partner organisations. By co-hosting fundraisers, they build capacity and strengthen the local sector. 

Business Boost: Corporate Social Responsibility in Action 

The involvement of the local big Tesco store, facilitated by Community Officer Tricia Glenister, ensures that sweets are donated for the children who attend. This type of support aligns with Tesco’s focus on supporting their local community. 

Borough Support: Governance and Vision 

The assistance received from Dacorum Borough Council is key to the event’s success, reflecting Community Action Dacorum’s strategic aim to “promote, organise, and facilitate co-operation and partnership working between third sector, statutory and other relevant bodies”.  

The Ultimate Win-Win Outcome 

The “Children write your Letter to Father Christmas!” event creates positive impact at every level: 

Joy for Children and Peace of Mind for Parents: Children will enjoy meeting the “surprise mystery guest”, and receiving sweets donated by Tesco. Providing a moment of happiness during the busy festive season. For the grown-ups, hot mulled wine will also be available to buy.  

Funding for Small Charities: Every ticket purchased contributes directly to the Mayor’s Future Fund, ensuring small, impactful local charities receive vital investment. 

Community Strength: The collective effort of charities, business, and local government demonstrates a strong, unified community spirit in Dacorum, fulfilling the mission of “Bringing people and organisations together to achieve more”. 

This event provides practical support to the voluntary sector while delivering a joyous experience to the community, proving that collective action is the most impactful way to improve the quality of life for Dacorum residents. 

Event Details: 

• What: Children write your Letter to Father Christmas!  

• Where: St. Mary’s Church, Old Town, Hemel Hempstead. 

• When: Saturday 13th December, 10:30 am – 3:00 pm (last booking 2:30 pm). 

• Cost: £5 per child. All proceeds go to small local charities. 

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/mayors-office-dacorum-borough-council/t-dkaqmlx