An anonymous benefactor, a first birthday, and success in its fundraising entrepreneur competition mean Trowbridge charity People Against Poverty has celebrated a year to remember.

“A year ago things were bleak,” said CEO Val Huxley. “The recession was hitting hard, but we were committed to moving the charity forward. “Our commitment to the very poorest in society meant we couldn’t just walk away when things got tough.” It seems their supporters felt the same as not only have they survived and been able to continue work with communities in Haiti, Nepal and Romania.

Coinciding with their birthday is the completion of their Dobrovat House project. “This project exemplifies our belief that it is important to give a hand up, not a hand out,” Val said.

“The community in Romania now have a place where they can meet and use to help themselves.

“We wanted to complete the build this summer but we looked like we would still fall short. “Then out of the blue we received an anonymous donation of £10,000. What a birthday present!”