Donation banks have been set up in stores across Watford to help give vulnerable young people a helping hand.

Tinned food and other items are being collected at Co-op stores in the town for youths supported by Hightown Housing Association.

Goods left in the donation banks, which also accept soft drinks, cosmetics, stationery, and magazines, will go to vulnerable young people aged 16 to 25 who live independently thanks to help from the housing association.

Sian Wildman, 18, became homeless two years ago and could still be sleeping on the street if not for the accommodation and support offered by Hightown.

“When I first came here I had no food, no family, nothing,” she said.

“Without some of the words from my support worker, I don’t know where I would be. Without Hightown’s support, I might still be living on the street.”

Charmaine Shaibo, 18, is hoping to realise her ambitions after moving into Young People’s Housing Service (YPHS) supported accommodation in Watford when she was just 17 due to a breakdown in her family relationships.

She is studying Health and Social Care at Harrow College, and is now being supported to live more independently at a YPHS “move-on” property.

“I’m now responsible for everything around the house, and the staff are not here 24/7, but I still feel very secure and I can call if I need any help” she says.

Danielle Tocker, scheme manager for YPHS in Watford, said: “We’re really grateful to the Co-op for placing the donation banks in its stores across the town.

“Their customers can also be assured that any donations will be much appreciated by the young people we support, who have all had difficult times in their lives.”