A PRINCE’S Trust team from Clacton was also shortlisted for an award.
The out-of-work youngsters overcame mental health problems, low literacy and substance abuse after joining the charity.
They worked with Essex Youth Service and the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) before opening a pop-up shop in the town centre to distribute warm clothing, bedding and toys to the homeless and poor.
The team also battled cold, dirty damp conditions to gut a dilapidated unit and refurbish it.
As a result of the project, 400 families and individuals had toys and clothes for Christmas.
The results have been lifechanging for the team, with some now training as volunteer CAB advisers, while the rest are in work or education.
The youngsters are up for a High Sheriff of Hertfordshire community impact award.
High sheriff Fergus McMullen said: “They have not only been making a real difference to their local community, but have improved their own lives.”
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