Christian Aid Week

This week is Christian Aid Week, May 11-17, when supporters from all over the UK come together to find different ways of raising funds and awareness for the work of the organisation’s local partners, empowering communities around the world to find practical and sustainable ways out of poverty.

The President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference are encouraging people to take part.

Revd Helen Cameron said: “The work of Christian Aid in alleviating poverty globally is more important than ever.”

Vice President, Carolyn Godfrey added: “Christian Aid continues to be a beacon of hope for communities around the world facing poverty, injustice, and crisis. Christian Aid’s focus on addressing the root causes of inequality—whether through climate justice, advocating for human rights, or supporting local communities in the face of disasters—shows their dedication to creating a more just and compassionate world.”

This year, the charity – which is marking its 80th anniversary – is focussing its flagship appeal on work in Guatemala, in Central America, where climate change is causing the seasons to intensify and shift erratically.

As a result, farming communities have to battle severe floods and, more recently, ferocious heatwaves. Water sources are drying up and vital crops are failing, plunging farming families into hunger and poverty.

Amelia is 24 and a mother of two from the Alta Verapaz region. She said the situation is very worrying: “In the past three years, we have been experiencing high heat and a lack of rain. One of the biggest issues is the lack of water…My plantations have been dying… and there is no food for my family.”

Despite the challenges families are facing, the unstoppable power of hope drives people to look for ways to push back.

Christian Aid has been working with organisations like, Coordinación de ONG y Cooperativas, to offer training and tools so farmers can diversify and grow more resilient crops, build water recycling systems, and create organic fertiliser.

When Amelia discovered these initiatives, she put herself forward as a community representative, attending training sessions and bringing the learning back, to train other women in her community. She also raises awareness about the environment, discouraging people from littering, and encouraging people not to sell their land.

Every year, Christian Aid shines a light on people like Amelia and the efforts of local organisations to work with them towards a better future.

And once more, church leaders up and down the country are supporting the work of the charity and the fundraising efforts of its amazing supporters in the UK.

To find out how you can take part in Christian Aid Week, please visit www.christianaid.org.uk