Chai Brady
Helping to launch Trócaire’s annual Lenten Appeal are siblings Connla and Liadh Fallon, with cut-outs of children previously featured on Trócaire Lent boxes. Photo: Mark Stedman Trócaire has warned that one-third of its annual donations have been put at risk after Covid-19 restrictions severely curtailed the distribution of Trócaire boxes this Lent.
The Church-charity’s Lenten Appeal began on Ash Wednesday but the closure of schools and public Mass restrictions due to the pandemic have meant Trócaire boxes won’t reach many homes this year.
While boxes are available to be picked-up at churches nationwide, there are up to 50% fewer boxes in circulation.
CEO Caoimhe de Barra said: “Covid-19 restrictions mean this Lent will be the first time in almost 50 years many Irish homes will be without a Trócaire box. Boxes have been left in churches for people to pick-up and we urge supporters to pick-up a box if it is safe and within the public health guidelines to do so,”
Trócaire raises approximately €8 million each Lent, which amounts to roughly one-third of its annual donations. The charity has warned that its inability to distribute boxes this year may “severely damage its life-saving work around the world”.
The charity said that if it is unsafe to collect a box, annual donations can be made online at trocaire.org.
“Lent is the engine that keeps our programmes going throughout the year. The public in Ireland always rally behind our campaign. While this year will be different, we hope the public will continue to support our life-saving work overseas,” Ms de Barra said.
“Our campaign this year focuses on people who are trapped in long-running wars, such as those affecting places such as South Sudan and Somalia. Generations of people in these countries have been forced to live through conflict. Their resilience and determination to help each other is remarkable. By donating to our Lenten Appeal, you will be helping them to help themselves.”