Sir, – Over the years Christian Aid has asked for the support of the people of Farnham throughout the year and particularly during the Christian Aid week. The residents of this town have always responded generously. This year Christian Aid Week starts this Sunday and we are writing to ask for support again.
We have in the past given examples of the work done by Christian Aid and the positive effects it has on the lives of millions of people. This humanitarian work is done in more than sixty countries by some heroic workers in partnership with Christian Aid and with the help of funds raised in this country.
We would particularly like to bring to your attention work done by Christian Aid partners in Iraq.
Christian Aid has been operating in Iraq long before the troops and the camera crews arrived and intends to stay there long after they have moved on. Christian Aid's worked in Iraq includes provision of clean water, upgrading sanitation facilities to help prevent outbreak of deadly illnesses, first aid and other basic training of local people who can bring immediate relief when and where it is needed.
Christian Aid is always able to respond to emergencies, but is also engaged in long-term provision of basic skills in medicine, education, sanitation, agriculture, and in all these fields to enable the local population to improve their quality of life.
Christian Aid works through 'heroes' both in the field and those who work and campaign in this country. Your readers will see some of them knocking on doors in the next week. We ask them to respond generously and be 'heroes' themselves in the fight against poverty, injustice and inequity in this world.
Catherine Delve, Team Leader, Pioneer People;
Shirley Ford, Vicar of Wrecclesham;
Malcolm Groom, Minister, Methodist Church;
Pat Hall, Minister, United Reformed Church;
John Page, Team Rector, Hale with Badshot Lea;
Clive Richardson, Vicar of Rowledge and Frensham;
John Ross, Minister, Farnham Baptist Church;
Jonathan Still, Vicar of St Thomas-on-the Bourne;
Andrew Tuck, Rector of Farnham;
Anthony Whale, Parish Priest, St Joan of Arc;
Nasir Virji, Chairman, Farnham Christian Aid