Help for Haiti

Oxfam Coleraine is making an urgent appeal for people to donate money in the Kingsgate Street store.

FOLLOWING the massive 7.0 magnitude earthquake which struck the Caribbean Island of Haiti, leaving thousands dead, millions affected and the entire country's infrastructure crippled, The response of people so far has been one of amazing generosity and compassion with over 865 being donated in the Coleraine store in the days following the catastrophe.

Joanne Milligan, Manager of Oxfam Coleraine, says she has been overwhelmed by how the people of Coleraine have responded to assist Haiti which is recognised as the poorest country in the western hemisphere.

"We've had donations, large and small through our counter box and also over the till and all are extremely welcome," she said.

"In the last week we've had children come into the shop with their piggy banks and money boxes, along with donations from individuals and local businesses and we would like to thank the people of Coleraine for their support during these recessionary times. We would urge people to continue their support and also assure people that no amount of a donation is too small as it all adds up.

"We rely on the generosity of Coleraine residents for our stock. Without continued donations of everything from clothing to cookware, Oxfam would not be in a position to help millions of people around the world, including those in desperate need in Haiti this week."

Oxfam is unable to send out donations of blankets, clothes and other materials directly to Haiti, as it is vastly more expensive and inefficient to send goods from Ireland rather than source them locally. However, people in Coleraine who want to donate items to help Oxfam's work should still take donations to the Coleraine Oxfam shop, as the funds raised from their sale allows the charity to continue saving lives around the world.

Oxfam are appealing to people of all ages who would be interested in organising events, such as Car Boot Sales, Cake Sales, Coffee mornings, sponsored walk, table quiz's and any other events to support Haiti. Oxfam can guarantee a safe and secure channel for all funds to reach the people in Haiti who need it most.

People can donate through the Oxfam store on 27-29 Kingsgate St, Coleraine, BT52 1LD, by calling 0800 0 30 40 55 or online at www.oxfamireland.org

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