Oxfam pays tribute to Laois and Offaly’s “humanitarian heroes”
Dear Editor,
I have been fortunate enough over the years to see the impact of the life-saving work undertaken by humanitarian workers across the world following conflict, famine and natural disaster.
Unfortunately, more people than ever need humanitarian assistance and the number of people escaping war and conflicts is rising, now standing at nearly 60 million. This is the highest number of people who have had to flee their homes since World War II. Some of the moving stories behind the statistics can be found at EUsaveLIVES.org.
World Humanitarian Day (Wednesday 19th August) honours the aid workers who help people caught up in emergencies around the world. But their work simply wouldn’t be possible without the support of people here at home. In truth we can all be humanitarians too, in various ways. Humanitarian heroes are people from all walks of life, who are committed to making a difference.
If you make a regular contribution, if you shop or donate at your local Oxfam Portlaoise or Oxfam Tullamore store, if you volunteer with Oxfam or campaign against inequality and injustice – then you too are having a positive impact. Contributions like these help fund Oxfam’s emergency responses, most recently in places like Nepal, Syria and South Sudan; they support our long-term development projects and the campaigning that gives a voice to the vulnerable.
For example, during our recent appeal for Nepal, the money raised by the public in Co. Laois and Co. Offaly undoubtedly saved many lives and helped numerous families and communities with clean, fresh water for washing and drinking.
To all the inspirational humanitarians in Co. Laois on behalf of those who Oxfam works with – thank you.
Jim Clarken,
Chief Executive of Oxfam Ireland