Wee Box Lent appeal to help the poorest

People on Arran are being urged to get behind SCIAF’s Wee Box Lent appeal to raise money for some of the world’s poorest people as they continue to be ravaged by climate change, hunger and the coronavirus crisis.

This year the UK government has again committed to matching – pound-forpound – all donations given to the appeal before May 11, meaning people’s donations will go twice as far. Funds raised will provide much-needed help to children with disabilities and their families in South Sudan, to overcome poverty, hunger and the devastating impact of the coronavirus crisis and economic downturn.

Every year, generous Scots give up a treat for Lent and place the money they would save into the Wee Box.

Money raised from this appeal helps to provide crucial schooling, healthcare, food, sanitation, and support to earn a living.

In 2020, the appeal raised more than £2.6m, including £1.2m of match funding from the UK government helping people in extremely poor communities where SCIAF works. The people of North Ayrshire generously gave more than £36,390 last year.

SCIAF’s director Alistair Dutton said: ‘We’re incredibly grateful to the people of North Ayrshire for supporting us year after year.

‘Even during these difficult months you have shown amazing generosity and kindness. Your continued support means extremely poor communities can get the help they need to work themselves out poverty and survive the devastating impact of the pandemic. ‘We’re also delighted that as part of UK aid match, everything you give to our Wee Box appeal will be doubled by the UK government and help make twice the difference.’