28 Nov 2024
The roaring twenties – 1920s that is – brought some glitz and Great Gatsby glamour to St Michael’s Manor in aid of Home-Start Herts.
The event, which raised an incredible £23,350 to support local families who are struggling, saw guests getting into the 1920s spirit with flapper dresses, art deco jewellery, Mary Jane shoes and men donning zoot suits.
Guests at the event included Baroness Sharon Taylor of Stevenage, Kevin Bonavia Stevenage MP, Leader of Stevenage Council, Richard Henry and award-winning author and patron of Home-Start Herts, Ken Follett.
This was the eighth themed fundraising event Home-Start Herts has hosted, and the last for CEO Suzy Moody, as she leaves the charity for pastures new in December.
Suzy said: “What an incredible way to end my 10 years working to support vulnerable families with Home-Start Herts. This year has been incredibly hard for families in Hertfordshire and they are needing support more than ever.
“We were delighted to welcome 120 guests to our eighth annual fundraising event at St Michael’s Manor Hotel. Thanks to the generosity of our fabulous guests on the night, we will be able to provide support for approximately 10 vulnerable families in Hertfordshire, on a 1:1 basis in their own homes, so they can give their children the best start in life.
“Home-Start offers early intervention, preventing families from reaching crisis point, and supporting them to manage the challenges they are facing.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended our event and especially to our sponsors for helping to host such a wonderful occasion.”
Ken Follett added: “I am delighted to have been platinum sponsor of Home-Start Hertfordshire’s 2024 Great Gatsby gala dinner. Home-Start Herts does great work helping young families in need – and gives great parties too! I know how a little help can go a long way when you have young children.”
All photos by Niina Anita Photography
