Scottish Catholic Observer

They will join thousands of supporters in parishes, schools and homes across the country who put their change in a Wee Box to raise vital funds for the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund’s life-changing work with families affected by hunger, poverty, war and natural disasters.

The appeal will be launched on Ash Wednesday, March 1, and runs till Easter Sunday, April 16. This year’s theme explores how SCIAF is helping families in Zambia to overcome the challenges of hunger and poverty, made worse by climate change, so they can grow the food they need and build a more secure future for themselves. SCIAF’s president Bishop Joseph Toal of Motherwell said: “SCIAF’s work is a great example of how we can all help people in some of the poorest countries in the world to improve their lives.

“Something as simple as putting your spare change in your SCIAF Wee Box this Lent means families in countries like Zambia will get help to grow enough food to eat, earn an income and have hope for a better future. I urge everyone to support our Wee Box appeal this Lent.”

Archbishop Philip Tartaglia of Glasgow added that ‘it’s difficult to imagine what it’s like to go hungry every day or not be able to drink clean water.’

“But that’s the reality for millions of people around the world,” he said. “I urge people to reflect on this during Lent. By working together we really can make a huge difference to the lives of families in poor countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America.”

Archbishop Leo Cushley of St Andrew’s & Edinburgh (inset) said: “People all over the world are going hungry every day because they are so poor. SCIAF is helping many of them to have a better future,” he said. “I really hope the Wee Box appeal will be at the heart of every parish this Lent. Having seen SCIAF’s work first hand, I’ve no doubt everyone’s donations will make a huge difference.”

Bishop John Keenan echoed those views saying: ‘This year’s ‘Wee Box, Big Change’ Lent appeal shows how the Catholic Church in Scotland, through SCIAF, is bringing hope to poor farmers in Zambia. Many have struggled to feed their families and climate change has made their lives even more difficult. Yet, by providing simple things like good seeds, farm tools and training they’re able to grow more food on their land and earn much needed cash. Let’s all dig deep this Lent.”