Welwyn Hatfield's new Mayor, Councillor Pankit Shah, has chosen two local charities to support during his term of office. 

The Mayor’s charities for the year are Hatfield Food Bank and New Zion Christian Fellowship Foodbank in Welwyn Garden City.

Hatfield Food Bank is part of the Trussell Trust network of food banks, providing emergency food and support to people in crisis in the Hatfield area.

The food bank relies on donations from the public and volunteers to operate. Last year, it provided over 7,000 meals to people in need.

Dominic Long, manager of the Hatfield Food Bank, said: "We are so grateful that the mayor has chosen Hatfield Foodbank as one of his charities for the year.

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"His support of us is an affirmation of all we do to help local people in crisis.

"This partnership will assist us as we continue to provide much needed food and toiletries to individuals and families who are struggling."

New Zion Christian Fellowship is an independent church located in Welwyn Garden City.

Caroline, who works at the New Zion Christian Fellowship Foodbank, said: “We are delighted to be selected as one of the mayor’s chosen charities this year.

"The Foodbank is very busy, and we are seeing increasing numbers of families and individuals accessing help due to the cost of living and rising food and fuel prices.

"We appreciate the support and generosity of those supporting the Foodbank and know it is hugely valued by those in need in our community."

Councillor Shah said: “I am delighted to support these two wonderful charities that do so much good work in our borough especially during the cost-of-living crisis.

"They both help people and families who are facing hardship and challenges, and they both demonstrate compassion and kindness. I hope that through my fundraising efforts, I can raise awareness and funds for these worthy causes.”

The Mayor will be organising various events and activities throughout the year to raise money for his chosen charities.

He also welcomes donations from individuals and organisations who wish to support his charitable appeal.

To find out more about the Mayor’s Charities, visit www.welhat.gov.uk/mayor or contact the Mayor’s Office at mayors.office@welhat.gov.uk or 01707 357419.