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Christian Aid creates self sustainable projects in third world countries that last.
It can be all too easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of every day life. Sometimes we forget that there are many needy causes in the world, more important than catching Lost on a Sunday night. Whilst you may recognise the red envelopes they use to collect money, the cause you’re donating to may be a little less well known. So, here’s the breakdown for you.
Contrary to public belief, ‘Christian Aid’ does not only support Christians, it prides itself on helping wherever and whoever needs it. It works to make a difference to the lives of the poorest people in countries across the globe. The money raised this week, including that of York students, provides 20% of the charity’s income, showing just how important this money is, and the event in the Christian Aid calendar.
York Christian Focus chair Peter Davis told The Yorker, “As Christians on campus we feel it is part of our duty to carry out social action that we feel compelled to do. Christian Aid is a part of that”. Davis added, “Christian Aid creates self sustainable projects in third world countries that last. It is also a charity for emergency relief in such places as Darfur and natural disaster areas, where a little money will go a long way”.
HISTORY OF CHRISTIAN AID
Christian Aid was founded in 1945. It’s original role was to help refugees across war-torn Europe and has since expanded to help people worldwide.
The charity now works in 60 of the worlds poorest countries and aims to not only to help those who are trying to improve their lives, but to also tackle the root causes of poverty. Their biggest tool is their campaigns, which attempt to stop the problems that create poverty and to train people who can actually help stop poverty occurring.
The things that they buy with your money aren’t just quick fixes, they’re things that help for many years to come - practical tools that communities can use season after season, year after year.
The organisation has supported many major campaigns, including helping secure rights for women in Afghanistan, AIDS victims in India, and farmers in Colombia.
CHRISTIAN AID WEEK
Last year’s Christian Aid Week raised £14.6 million pounds. 70% of which was split evenly between development programmes and emergency disaster relief all around the world.
If each person in your halls of residence block was to give £1, then a community well can be bought in Nigeria, supplying clean water to the whole village.
You may have had an envelope posted through your door as Christian Aid runs the UK’s largest door to door charity collection service. If it got thrown away along with a handful of takeaway menus, don’t fret - there are plenty more ways to donate.
It isn’t even necessary for you to give your money directly. If you switch your search engine to Surefish, every time you search, and no matter what you search for, Christian Aid receive 4 pence, which they can then immediately spend on their worthwhile projects.
Also, their ‘Present Aid’ scheme allows you to buy a gift with a difference. It will not only provide a talking point at home, but will benefit the lives of people in the far-flung corners of the world. Just £24 will buy 16 ducks for poor family in Bangladesh, allowing them to work towards a brighter future. So with Father’s Day around the corner, why not buy Dad something a little different?
Just think – for the price of a pint at your local you could make all the difference to people all over the world. If you pass a collector on your way around campus this week, try to spare some change. Not only helping poor people all over the world, but showing that students can make a difference.
Alternatively visit the Christian Aid Website, where you can make donations online.
