A CONCERN Worldwide appeal supported by Irish News readers has raised an incredible £1.6 million.
Donations to 'Comeback from Crisis' have helped people rebuild their lives after disasters such as the conflict in South Sudan and the Nepal earthquake and a new project is tackling hunger for those affected by Ebola in Sierra Leone.
Concern Worldwide, found in Ireland in 1968 as a response to famine in the Nigerian province of Biafra, works with some of the world's poorest communities in places often at greatest risk from disasters, both natural and man-made.
The appeal highlighted the challenges survivors face when disaster strikes and had the backing of the UK government with every donation made being matched pound for pound.
Rose Caldwell from Concern Worldwide said: "We are grateful to readers of the Irish News for supporting our appeal.
"It is only through the generosity of the public that we have been able to launch this project that will help people avoid the threat of hunger."
Ireland rugby international and Ulster winger Craig Gilroy visited some of the projects launched in May last year, which aim to improve the quality and quantity of food production as well as increasing incomes so that people are better prepared in emergencies.
"It was fantastic to see first-hand the difference Concern is making to communities affected by Ebola, and its huge, positive impact on the lives of thousands of people," he said.
"What I saw during my time in Sierra Leone is that it isn't just about coping in a crisis. It is also about ensuring that those who make it through are given what they need to create their own opportunities."
The charity has started more than two dozen farmer field schools, where farmers learn how to increase their crop production and grow more nutritious food.
It has also set up almost 50 village savings and loans associations to help people save money for future investments or emergencies.
