Londonderry Mayor backs Afghanistan aid appeal

The Mayor of Londonderry, Alderman Mildred Garfield has called on people in the Northern Ireland to help prevent a humanitarian nightmare this winter and support the North West Afghanistan Appeal.

Speaking at the launch of the fundraiser at the Guildhall in Derry city centre, the Mayor, accompanied by representatives from the main churches, said: “It is important people from Derry city and the North West region come out in support of the campaign to get aid to those affected by the war in Afghanistan.

“The people of this city are renowned for their kindness and generosity and I am confident they will come out and support this campaign. A collection container will be located at the Guildhall Square on Saturday, 17 November, between 10am and 5pm for people to donate food and supplies.”

A spokesperson for the event organisers said she felt it was vital that all the people in the North West region were given the opportunity to contribute to the campaign, which is part of a worldwide initiative by the United Nations Refugee Agency, and help save the lives of women and children in Afghanistan.

She said: “The response I have received from the public has been fantastic. Everyone wants to help in whatever way they can. I am delighted that the churches have backed the campaign and the help and support given to me by the haulage and transportation companies has been phenomenal. Sainsbury’s donated a very generous food hamper and I am hoping other retail outlets will also get involved. I must extend a special note of thanks to Doherty Transport at Springtown, Tracco Logistics in Belfast and DFDS, a Danish shipping company, all of whom have helped greatly in assisting me set up this campaign.”

Members of the public can help by donating food items and supplies such as blankets, tents, sleeping bags and plastic sheets. They can do this on Saturday, November 17, when a collection container will be placed at Guildhall Square from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Alternatively people can leave items at the Methodist Mission, 6, Crawford Square, Derry. (AMcE)