17/07/20

On Thursday night, Cardiff Castle was illuminated in support of the Disasters Emergency Committee's Coronavirus Appeal, which is raising money to help the world's most fragile states threatened by Covid-19.  

The appeal, which was launched on Tuesday (14 July), brings together 7 leading charities in Wales, who are already on the ground in places like Yemen, Syria, and South Sudan, helping communities to tackle the deadly coronavirus threat.

Councillor Huw Thomas, the Leader of Cardiff Council, said:"In Cardiff, we are blessed in having strong and diverse communities, communities that have come together to support each other through the current coronavirus pandemic. However, many of our residents come from places where coronavirus will have a devastating impact.

"War-torn fragile places such as Yemen, Syria and South Sudan where millions of lives are at stake as Covid-19 hits. As someone who has first-hand experience of the work that DEC members do, I know that every penny raised from the Coronavirus Appeal will reach those most in need.

"I'm very happy to see our magnificent castle here in Cardiff, being used to help aid this appeal. Let's come together, in Cardiff and throughout Wales, to show our solidarity and support for our neighbours overseas, and give them the best opportunity to deal with coronavirus."

Across Wales, the appeal has already received widespread support, with Wales' First Minister, Mark Drakeford, releasing a video message earlier this week. 

It is hoped that the appeal, which is being matched by the UK government through the Department of International Development's Aid Match scheme, will help some of the world's poorest and most vulnerable communities access vital supplies and handwashing facilities.

The Chair of the DEC in Wales, Rachel Cable from Oxfam Cymru, has urged the people of Wales to back the appeal, adding:

"Wales is a small nation but has a big heart. Please support this appeal with a donation, however big or small, as soon as you can."

Donate to the DEC Emergency Appeal at:

www.dec.org.uk

Via text: Text HELPU to 70150 to donate £10 or on 0370 60 60 900.

Please send cheques to DEC Coronavirus Appeal, PO Box 999, London EC3A 3AA.