Harpenden Circle

Harpenden's Charity Christmas Gift and Craft Fair is an annual event that takes place every November, and this year is our 35th year. This year we have more than 50 stalls, including many new exhibitors as well as favourites from previous years. Our Gift Fair offers the people of Harpenden and surroundings the chance to get ahead with Christmas shopping in a relaxed and friendly environment. In addition to the shopping we offer a Fairtrade Cafe which is open both days, selling delicious homemade cakes, hot meals and Fairtrade drinks. And the Gift Fair is not complete without a visit to our tombola, with an amazing selection of fabulous prizes kindly donated by local businesses.

Most importantly Harpenden Circle runs the Gift Fair on an entirely voluntary basis and all profits go to charity. In 2009 we raised £16,800 the profits from which will be donated to Community Meeting Point, Ali's Appeal and Alzheimer's Research Trust

Community Meeting Point

Community Meeting Point is a small local charity helping those experiencing mental health problems in the area around Harpenden and St Albans. The centre, which is open 5 days a week, offers members the chance to learn daily living skills and enjoy recreational activities. At the training and business centre they gain experience of work and learn skills in a non-threatening atmosphere.
http://www.cmph.org.uk

Ali's Appeal

Ali Rainback was a young man who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour in November 2007 and sadly passed away on 22 June 2008. Ali's Appeal hopes to raise money to fund a bed at the Hospice of St Francis for one year. The Hospice of St Francis aims to enhance the quality of life of those suffering from cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. This includes in-patients, home care, daycare and respite care. More info...
http://www.stfrancis.org.uk

Alzheimer's Research Trust

The Alzheimer's Research Trust do not receive any government funding and instead rely on donations from individuals, companies and charitable trusts to fund their vital work. They support world-class research to find ways to cure, prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. They also provide free information on dementia and the treatments available. Their groundbreaking research programmes are the best in their field and offer real hope of making breakthroughs in the fight against dementia.
http://www.alzheimers-research.org.uk