MARY'S MEALS – BACK PACK APPEAL

Over the past 18 months the J Team has made three donations of money to Mary's Meals. Recently a representative of this charity visited the Ladies Group to promote their work. This letter is to let the congregation know about the 'Back Pack' appeal for Mary's Meals. The J Team would like your help in this project.

Mary's Meals (headquarters in Dalmally. Argyll) is a branch of Scottish International Relief which was started during the Bosnian War some years ago. Six years ago Mary's Meals began in Malawi feeding 200 children. The daily meal provided (which often is their only meal) attracts children into the classroom, encourages them to learn, and the education they receive can be an escape route out of poverty. The projects rely on local volunteers and 93% of all money donated is spent directly on the project and where possible locally produced food is used. Mary's Meals now feed over 350,000 children daily in over 14 of the world's poorest countries.

The Back Pack Project has arisen because families often cannot afford basic things, or even clothes, for children to go to school. This appeal can provide children with the equipment they need to attend school. The following is a list of the items required.

Recycling is best - i.e. old school bags / backpacks / clothes etc. as long as they are in good condition. Items that need to be bought should be from cheaper 'value' ranges. Clothing items should be in range of 4 - 12 years. Please do not donate extra toys or treats as this can cause problems with customs.

If you can donate any of the items needed to the J Team we will arrange for delivery to Mary's meals. Further information can be obtained from Mary's Meals, Craig Lodge, Dalmally, Argyll, PA33 1AR or online at www.marysmeals.org

© Cumbernauld Old Parish Church of Scotland; Registered Scottish Charity SC000877