The purpose of The Harpenden Trust, established to assist individuals and collectives in Harpenden who require aid, remains unaltered since its establishment in 1948 by the local populace. The Trust had admirable founding figures in Dr Charles Hill (later Lord Hill), the inaugural President, and Dr Agnes Kelynack, the first Chairperson. In 1950, the Daily Sketch newspaper characterised the Trust's work as an "unparalleled social endeavour in this country" – where the wealthier segments of society uphold a duty to aid the less fortunate.