In view of the heart-breaking recent earthquake and flooding tragedies, we have renewed our commitment to Shelterbox with an additional donation of £2,320, this month - enough for four "Shelterboxes". We gave a similar grant last year.

We admire the work done by this charity and its volunteers. Instead of reliance on the traditional emergency fund-raising activities that happen in the weeks following a natural disaster, Shelterbox builds up resources year-round, stocking a world-wide network of warehouses close to the places where these crises are most likely. They are therefore able to respond almost immediately when the need arises, rapidly delivering "Shelterboxes" tailored to the specific needs of the local population.

A typical "Shelterbox" would include a tough multi-person tent, a water-purifying unit, cooking equipment, clothing, blankets, child-care materials etc. These units often arrive long before aid from elsewhere, sometimes before even the local government has had time to fully react. Contributions to Shelterbox are always well spent and we applaud the work they do.

We support many charities and good causes, both local, national and international to get involved get in touch through our website www.hebdenbridgerotary.org.uk.