In summer 2011, a deadly combination of drought, conflict and escalating food prices led the UN to declare famine in six regions of southern Somalia. This already severe humanitarian emergency is likely to deepen over the next six months, affecting more children.
Advent is a time for reflection and thinking of others. In this spirit, we're asking you to help us save lives by holding a collection to remember the children of East Africa.
Your donations will enable us to deliver life-saving nutrition and other basic supplies to keep vulnerable children alive and prevent disease. We need your help to provide these solutions now and help support families in the long term.
Collection envelopes
We've produced church collection envelopes that you can order and use during any of your Lent services, carol concerts or Christmas events. You can order these by emailing the number of collection envelopes you need and your church address to helpdesk@unicef.org.uk. You can also phone us to order on 0844 801 2414.
At your collections or church events, members of the congregation can place their donations inside the envelopes and hand them to the church leader.
Please encourage all members of the congregation to fill out the slip on the back of the envelope. This means that we can claim back an extra 25p on every £1 you give, through Gift Aid. This extra income can save lives: as little as 10p can buy a polio vaccine for a child. Please fill out the Gift Aid form and send the envelopes back to us along with the donations.
Read more and donate now
You can also download or order our East Africa Crisis information sheet. This tells you more about the food crisis and how UNICEF is protecting children during the famine.
Church leaders may find this useful when preparing a sermon or talk for the congregation. The information can also be condensed and simplified so that it can be used for leaders of youth or children’s groups.
If you'd like to read more about our East Africa appeal you can download our information sheet or read more online. You can also donate directly to this appeal by visiting our East Africa appeal donations page.
