Festive fundraising for communities living through conflict

International development charity, Christian Aid, has launched its Christmas Appeal which this year is shining a light on South Sudan where hundreds of thousands of people are seeking safety from the conflict in neighbouring Sudan.

The organisation works through local partners on initiatives aimed at supporting families as they settle into the refugee camps, and in the longer term as they try to forge new lives.

To help raise funds for these vital projects, the charity’s supporters are raising their voices with carol concerts and Advent services around the UK.

Kettering Christian Aid representatives, along with singers from local churches and members of “Camerata Singers”, are taking part with some carol singing at the Newlands Shopping Centre, in Kettering.

The event takes place on Saturday, December 7 from 11am-noon.

Funds raised will help groups like the Smile Again Africa Development Organisation which offers a lifeline to people who have had to leave everything behind – people like 35-year-old mother-of-three Shede.

She explained: “Fighting broke out and homes were bombed. Food was no longer available. The situation was dire.

“I did not come with anything. I only came with these clothes on. The rest of my belongings were all left behind. No table, no teapot, no chair, no bed. Nothing.”

Fleeing conflict does not mean the danger is over for people like Shede and the decision to leave is not taken lightly.

But thanks to supporters throughout the UK, aid agencies are able to offer support.

James Wani, Country Director of Christian Aid South Sudan, “The arrival of hundreds of thousands of people to areas already experiencing extreme poverty, has put enormous pressure on authorities and humanitarian organisations alike. Offering financial assistance means people can prioritise their own specific needs and decide how to meet them and is a lifeline for families who’ve left everything behind to survive. It’s a programme which brings choice, hope and dignity to people who’ve lost so much.”

Event organiser Rosalind Robinson said: “We are supporting Christian Aid’s Christmas appeal because we want to help those who are fleeing from the fighting in Sudan, unable to bring any belongings with them.

We hope members of local choirs will come along to join us to raise money for this appeal, by singing well-known carols which tell the story of Christmas.”

Anyone wanting to support Christian Aid’s Christmas Appeal or make a donation can visit www.christianaid.org.uk and click on Appeals to find out more.