‘What happens when a community comes together’
ShelterBox’s annual carol concert saw hundreds of people brave the cold weather as they headed to Truro Cathedral earlier this week.
Organisers say it was an unforgettable evening which brought people together to support families around the world.
This year’s event was held in support of the charity’s Christmas fundraising appeal featured a special performance of ‘Cornwall My Home’ by songwriter Harry Glasson.
There were also carols from The Suitcase Singers and Ingleheart Singers together with a set by local sea shanty group The Clams.
‘Seeing so many people standing side by side in such an iconic venue was a beautiful reminder of what happens when a community comes together,’ says Emily Mullen, Head of Supporter Engagement at ShelterBox.
‘The Cathedral was packed and it was an evening filled with music, joy, and community spirit.’
‘Every song sung and every pound raised supports families around the world rebuild after disaster and it was really poignant to close to the evening with Harry Glasson and The Clams ending on Cornwall my Home.’
‘Moments like this remind us that hope starts with community, and together, we can be ready to respond when the next disaster strikes.’
Presenter and author Fern Britton gave a special reading at the Cathedral which saw guests hear from ShelterBox chief executive Sanj Srikanthan about the charity’s impact and ongoing work.
Image provided by ShelterBox
‘Hope starts with community’
‘It was a reminder of how precious shelter is, especially on a cold winter night, and how many people around the world don’t have homes to return to,’ says Fern.
‘For millions, losing shelter isn’t just a disruption – it’s life-changing. This concert brings our community together to help change that.’
The charity specialises in emergency shelter aid, supporting communities with emergency shelter and essential items like tents, thermal blankets, solar lights, and water filters – practical support that often brings warmth and hope to families in crisis.
The charity has supported more than three million people in around 100 countries since it was founded 25 years ago – thanks in large part to the generosity of communities across Cornwall and the Westcountry.
ShelterBox is currently responding to emergencies in the Philippines, Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean, and a powerful earthquake in Afghanistan. Funds raised from the concert will support people around the world left without shelter after disaster.
