Meath people urged to give up something for CONCERN

CONCERN Worldwide is urging the people of Meath to give up a habit or activity for the annual 'Fast' campaign to raise vital funds for children dying from hunger.

Social media, television and video games are among the many things that people can forgo for 24 hours as part of what is now one of Ireland’s longest running fundraising campaigns.

Traditionally, the Concern Fast - made famous byt he Saw Doctors - focused on giving up food, but it can now include any activity or habit, such as drinking coffee, smoking, driving, using smart phones or vocalised pauses.

The 48-year-old campaign, which began the same year the Irish aid agency was founded in 1968, takes place on Thursday, 24th November  and the funds raised will help children suffering in countries like Ethiopia, Syria and South Sudan.

 Concern’s Community Fundraising Manager, and coordinator of the Fast campaign, Jonathan Power, added: “Concern Fast is a rewarding opportunity to challenge yourself for a very deserving cause.

“We cannot thank the Irish public enough for their support and all of our dedicated volunteers who do street collections and other fundraising activities throughout the year”.

Donations from Concern Fast will help provide high-energy therapeutic food for malnourished children and will also give families the long-term support needed to feed their children in years to come.

Concern, which is a member of Charities Institute Ireland, said a donation of euro24 will provide enough to feed one child for a month.

The aid agency helped 22.6 million people in 28 countries in 2015 and responded to 42 emergencies thanks to funds received, including donations from Fast.

People can sign up for Concern Fast at www.concern.net/fast or by calling 1850 50 50 55 – and participants can also engage with Concern on Twitter @Concern , Facebook, Snapchat and on Instagram.