Caritas Lent appeal launched amid growing crises

The Bishops Lenten Appeal, which officially starts on March 4, runs throughout Lent. Funds raised will support vulnerable communities facing crisis and disaster.

This year’s appeal highlights the story of Mavae and her family from Tonga, who survived the devastating tsunami triggered by the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption in January 2022.

In an instant, their lives were turned upside down by the tsunami, which destroyed lives, livelihoods, and hundreds of homes. 

In the chaos, Mavae feared for her family, but they were reunited and found safety together. But the tsunami washed away everything that she and her community had worked for.

Thanks to Caritas supporters, Mavae’s family received emergency aid, including food and shelter, and they were able to start rebuilding their lives. Today, Mavae and her family have a home again, and they know they are not alone.

“The support we received showed we were loved,” said Mavae.

Funds from the Lent Appeal will continue to support families like Mavae’s all over the globe, helping them to recover from disasters and build resilience against future crises.

Last year, Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand helped more than 427,000 people with immediate humanitarian emergency assistance in places as diverse as Gaza, Lebanon, Bangladesh and Ukraine.

At the same time, it provided long-term development assistance to more than 131,000 people, through such activities as improving livelihoods, upgrading water and sanitation systems, offering vocational training, supplying health and nutrition lessons, and helping with climate change adaptation. Most of these activities took place across the Pacific and Asia.

“This year’s Lent Appeal is particularly crucial,” said Caritas chief executive Mena Antonio.

“We are witnessing increasing instability and suffering across the globe, while at the same time, wealthier nations are showing reluctance to meet their obligations to the most vulnerable.

“The recent shutdown of USAID funding is a stark example, and I am sad to say it will place immense pressure on Pacific communities already struggling with the realities of climate change.”

Caritas Internationalis has condemned the wave of drastic cuts to international development assistance.

The Bishops’ Lenten Appeal runs until Easter. To support the Caritas Lent Appeal, visit www.caritas.org.nz/lent.

Donations can also be made through local parishes.

FULL STORY

Caritas Media release