Scots have helped to raise vital funds for communities around the globe who have been struck by disaster
Scots have helped to raise almost £1million for those struck by crisis across the globe.
SCIAF’s Wee Box Big Change appeal this year raised £925,869 for the charity’s life-changing work with people devastated by hunger, poverty, war and natural disasters in some of the poorest countries in the world.
Scotland’s National Chef, and MasterChef: The Professionals winner, Gary Maclean reunited with pupils from Holyrood Secondary School after they launched the appeal on Shrove Tuesday in March to reveal the results of months of fundraising by schools, parishes and people across Scotland.
This year, the appeal told the story of the charity’s work with vulnerable young people in Uganda. In central and northern regions, high unemployment rates, HIV and AIDS, and the legacy of war have left a high number of orphans and a generation of young people without hope, trapped in extreme poverty.
SCIAF is helping young people to be independent, grow the food they need and earn a living so they can support themselves and their families.
Maclean said: “I was delighted to support SCIAF’s Wee Box, Big Change appeal this year, which highlighted its help for vulnerable young people in Uganda so they can lift themselves out of poverty by growing their own food.
“I work in a college and am passionate about helping young people realise their potential. SCIAF is doing the same thing for young people around the world and I feel privileged to have played a part in this appeal.
“It’s incredible that the Wee Box appeal has raised almost £1 million and I know that money will help those who need it most.”
SCIAF’S chief executive Alistair Dutton thanked supporters for making the appeal a success.
“I’d like to thank Gary, the pupils and teachers at Holyrood Secondary, and everyone in Scotland for supporting the appeal so generously and making it a great success,” he said.
“The money raised will make a huge difference to the lives of many thousands of people who struggle every day due to poverty, conflict and natural disasters.
“This money will give them the practical help they need so they can work their way out of poverty, support themselves and have a brighter future.”
