Donations poured into our Christmas appeal, raising £21,117 for Mary’s Meals – a UK charity that feeds more than 2.4 million pupils daily 10p cups of porridge.
That money is being doubled by donors, meaning readers have actually handed over £42,234.
Founder Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow said: “Over the weeks while the Daily Express has been sharing stories from children and communities in the Mary’s Meals school feeding programme, it’s been a source of joy to see readers respond with such compassion and generosity.
“We saw donations pour in as people – with kindness in their hearts – chose to give some of what they have to help others in need.
“We appreciate every one of these donations. And I know that some of those gifts involved sacrifice, because the cost-of-living crisis here in the UK has made the last couple of years a real struggle for many people.
“And so, I thank each of you who found a way to reach out to others while times are hard.
“Regardless of the size of your donation please don’t underestimate its enormity.”
We highlighted dozens of children’s experiences of hunger in rural Zambia where financial struggles, climate change and social issues put immense pressure on families.
But they are now being helped by a warm cup of fortified porridge. The basic meal relieves pressure on impoverished parents and allows their child to keep going to school for an education, the key to making a better life for them all.
Magnus said: “I was so moved when reading the story of Emmanuel and Victoria from Luangwa Valley in Zambia, who are trying hard to support their family despite serious health challenges and a failed harvest. It’s amazing to hear the simple meal served to their children at school relieves some of their anxiety around finding food, and that their sons feel more able to concentrate and participate in class.
“This dual impact is part of the beauty of our work, which meets both the immediate need of the hungry child and tackles the underlying cause of hunger by enabling them to gain an education.”
Mary’s Meals was formally founded in 2002 and operates in 18 countries, including Syria,Yemen and Malawi from its original HQ – a shed in Dalmally, Argyll.
- To donate to Mary’s Meals, please visit www.marysmeals.org.uk/express
Donations to the charity are being doubled until January 22.
