The acts of kindness took place on Mitzvah Day, a Jewish-led day of social action that encourages people of all backgrounds to come together and help others.
On Sunday, November 23, families, faith leaders, councillors, police, and hundreds of volunteers worked on projects to support vulnerable people and improve the environment.
Elstree and Borehamwood Town Mayor Dan Ozarow said: “Our town had a real buzz about it today as people from all walks of life and backgrounds focused on being kind and doing good deeds to help strangers who they don’t know and will probably never meet.
“Today was just about seeing each other as neighbours and as humans.
“I am sure that the ripple effect will spread across our area for some time to come.”
In Borehamwood and Elstree, the Joely Bear Appeal ran a blood donation centre at Borehamwood and Elstree United Synagogue.
A total of 120 people donated blood for patients with cancer and other serious illnesses.
Leigh Renak, chairman of the Joely Bear Appeal, said: “Today, 120 donors braved the weather, and the needles, and gave their blood.
“In addition to the staff team from NHSBT, some 30 volunteers gave their time to ensure the success of this day of life-saving.”
Elsewhere, volunteers collected baby toiletries and toys for Sebby’s Corner, and food items for Borehamwood Foodbank.
Children, parents, and teachers at The Liberal Synagogue Elstree baked and decorated cinnamon and apple swirls and gingerbread people, while members of the Jewish and Muslim communities joined in litter picking across Borehamwood’s streets and green spaces.
Ilana Gershlick, who organised the litter pick, said: “Along the route we had some wonderful conversations, made new friendships, and generated great ideas for future community interactions and projects.”
Laura Marks CBE, founder and chair of Mitzvah Day, praised the wide reach of the day.
She said: “We know Jewish communities support local charities day in and day out.
“But what we saw this week on Mitzvah Day raised the bar, engaged new people and causes, strengthened essential bridges between communities and maybe most importantly, felt great.”
