Wee Box, Big Change for Lent 2008

Radio Clyde’s Suzie McGuire and Gina McKie have joined forces with SCIAF to raise money to combat global poverty.

The 2008 WEE BOX, BIG Change campaign which runs during Lent (6th Feb. to 20th March) hopes to raise £1 million to help SCIAF fight poverty in over 20 countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America. In addition to direct donations the celebrities and SCIAF are asking people to get into the Lenten spirit, give up a favourite treat during Lent such as chocolate, put the money saved in their WEE BOX, and then donate the proceeds to SCIAF. Last year the organisation raised over £870,000 from its campaign. The public can also make direct donations on 0141 354 5555 or online at www.theweebox.org.

Launching the campaign in Glasgow’s Merchant Square Gina and Suzie chatted with the public and highlighted how making a wee change in their lives this Lent can make a big difference to people living in poverty around the world. The high flying Scots have also pledged to give up their favourite treats of chocolate (Suzie), shoes and coffee (Gina) during Lent and put the money saved in their own WEE BOXES to donate to SCIAF.

Every year SCIAF provides life-saving resources such as food, cooking utensils, mattresses, medicine, seeds, tools, school books, pens, counselling and practical skills to individuals, families, and communities living with poverty, war, disabilities, and HIV/AIDS, but needs charitable donations to continue its work.

Speaking at the launch Suzie McGuire said:

“Millions of people suffer every day from a lack of clean water, food, shelter, and education. SCIAF’s WEE BOX, BIG Change campaign is dedicated to helping people living in poverty have a better future. Everyone in Scotland can help fight global poverty by giving a direct donation or making a wee change to their lives for instance by giving something up this Lent, putting the money saved in a WEE BOX, and donating it to SCIAF. I’ll be giving up chocolate and playing my part.”

Gina McKie said:

“The WEE BOX, BIG Change campaign raises vital funds from across Scotland to help thousands of people in developing countries cover their basic needs and work their way out of poverty. I’ll be giving up buying shoes and coffee this Lent and I’d encourage others to do the same to help SCIAF raise a million pounds to fight global poverty!”

The WEE BOX BIG Change appeal is Scotland’s second largest fundraising campaign and last year won the Institute of Fundraising Scotland’s Best Campaign Award.

Lent, is the forty-day season of fasting and prayer before Easter. It is a time when many people give something up during this period and donate the money they save to a good cause.

Media contacts:

SCIAF: Val Morgan Tel: 0141 354 5555 / Mobile: 07914 408 589

Email: vmorgan@sciaf.org.uk