12 GoodGymers dodged the rain and helped a Central London winter shelter!

Our friendly group visit the American International Church every winter to help out at their wonderfully important winter shelter.

Coordinated by C4WS, homeless people can get access to at least a month of shelter and support. Warm, safe, and supportive spaces.

And last night was our first trip back this season.

This brilliant group — of Caitlin, Chandrima (on their first good deed — welcome!!), Danny, Emily, Helen, Imogen, Jacqui, John, Loz, Sarah, and Steve — made a healthy difference in the swiftest time.

Beds upon beds were dressed and made, a dining room was brought to life, and gifted toiletries were set out ready for using.

Thank you, everyone! Here's to next time!

We were back at Hollybush Estate on Monday night, joining Margaret and Ash to shift the mulch we laid down several months ago, now rotted and ready to nourish a fresh round of bedding plants.

We were also joined by Michael from the Hollybush team, who came armed with a surprise for later in the evening. And a big welcome to @Dan Baker, newly arrived from Liverpool but already well at home with GoodGym thanks to his TaskForce experience. Thanks for the extra pair of hands, Dan! We also had a furry visitor, Missy the Beagle brought by Emma, perfect for the role of GoodGym mascot I must say!

With so many willing volunteers, the mulch was swiftly cleared and replaced with fresh material, leaving us plenty of time for the real highlight of the night: celebrating Margaret’s 70th birthday. Sparklers were lit and a caterpillar cake (expertly sourced by Lucinda) presented.

Margaret has been a constant, warm presence at Hollybush Estate for years. Anyone who’s volunteered here will know her trademark “How are you, darling?” and her tireless commitment to the gardens and community. GoodGym Tower Hamlets and Hollybush itself wouldn’t be the same without her.