£780,000 raised for Trócaire appeal

A year ago this week, at least 8,700 people were killed and more than half a million homes were destroyed in the worst earthquake to hit Nepal for 81 years.

Major cities, including the capital Kathmandu, were badly damaged.

Iin rural areas near the epicentre, 90% of people lost their homes and were left without food.

“The fundraising efforts of local communities and the kindness of individuals from Co. Antrim meant that Trócaire was able to rapidly provide life-saving aid after the earthquake,” said Trócaire’s Regional Manager, Kevin Donnelly.

He added: “People all over Ireland, north and south, contributed over £780,000 to our emergency appeal. I would like to thank people in Co. Antrim for playing their part.

“Thanks to their generosity, Trócaire and our UK partner, CAFOD, reached 300,000 people with vital aid such as food, blankets, tarpaulins, cooking utensils, beds, solar lamps and gas stoves. We are continuing to support water and sanitation initiatives and are helping people to rebuild their livelihoods and earn an income.

“The tremendous efforts of people here at home has allowed us to get shelter, water and other aid to people who lost everything when the earthquake struck. This support will be felt in Nepal for years to come.”

To find out more about Trócaire’s work visit trocaire.org.