Welcoming three new volunteers

Our hotel coordinator Denise sent this lovely message:

"Just to say that it’s been wonderful having three new volunteers at the free shop at the hotel.

​Caroline, Steph and Shirley have risen to the challenge and got stuck in to their volunteer roles straight away. They’ve been a huge asset and we couldn’t have managed to continue our distribution of much needed clothing for new family arrivals at the hotel, without them."

We asked Caroline, Shirley and Steph to tell us a little about why they are volunteering with Herts Welcomes Refugees and this is what they said:

​Caroline:
"I’ve been really disturbed by the rise of racism and division — sadly, it seems to be fashionable again in 2025. I wanted to do more than just show support from behind a keyboard or through donations; I wanted to actually do something tangible to help real people affected by the global migration crisis.

I came across Denise (Hertfordshire’s very own charity guru!) who introduced me to Herts Welcomes Refugees. I’m so pleased to have been approved as a volunteer — it’s challenging but incredibly rewarding. Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when you offer a friendly chat or a few essentials to make life a bit easier is truly heartwarming.

I’ve met wonderful volunteers and some lovely refugees. I’m so glad I joined the team and would thoroughly recommend HWR to anyone thinking of supporting this amazing charity."

Shirley:
"My name is Shirley and I am a single lady aged 73.  I have a close relationship with my two daughters and their families that include my two grandchildren.  

I wanted to get involved with refugees and  asylum seekers following the news coverage that sparked a lot of unrest and hatred towards these people and I can understand how frightening this was for the families and children housed in the hotels.  

I made an enquiry following a post on facebook with a photo of volunteers doing arts and crafts with young children!  This warmed my heart and I decided I wanted to help and support the refugee families.

I have been volunteering for the last two weeks at hotel in the free shop that provides clothes, shoes, toys baby equipment and school uniforms that are donated.  I am part of a friendly team with a team leader.  I have been sorting clothes into ages, male and female etc and hanging them in the correct sections.  

I have tried to help and show the families where certain items are.  I admit it is full on and quite hard work for a four-hour stint. But it is only once a week!  

My family are proud that I am helping in a small way and I am pleased I have impressed my grandson!  I am enjoying my role and I am looking forward to learning how HWR contribute in other ways.  

I am happy that I succeeded in becoming a volunteer for HWR."

Steph:
"Volunteering with HWR is a very moving and rewarding experience. I really enjoy helping families find clothes, toys and books in the donation shop. The joy on their faces when they find something they love is wonderful to see.

The other volunteers are very welcoming and work hard to provide help in many different ways for all the families.

I'm really glad that I can be a small part of something so impactful and important."

Thank you to Caroline, Shirley and Steph.  We are so pleased to have you on board and thank you for all you are doing to help support us, and helping asylum seekers find basic items and feel welcomed here.

And thank you to all those who donate items for the free shop too!