Letter to editor: International disaster relief charity ShelterBox launches its Tent for Lent campaign in support of people around the world who have been left without shelter after disaster

Dear Editor,

At the international disaster relief charity, ShelterBox, we’re launching our annual Tent for Lent campaign; a call to action, encouraging people to fundraise or give up something during lent, donating the money saved to help fund our projects around the world.  

ShelterBox provides emergency shelter, supporting people who have been uprooted from their homes and left without the basics needed to survive. We also provide essential items, such as cooking essentials, blankets, winter clothing, and solar lights; simple items that make a tangible difference for people who have been left with very little. 

By forgoing takeaway coffees, meals out, or sweet treats, and donating the money saved to ShelterBox, people can help us make sure that people affected by disaster or conflict do not go without shelter. Our fundraisers take on the challenge in many different ways and have even given up their beds, sleeping under canvas in all weather, to raise money for Tent for Lent. 

Every pound raised or saved makes a difference, helping us support people all over the world, including people in Somalia and Ethiopia who have been affected by the worst drought to hit East Africa in 40 years. Our work in places like Syria and Ukraine, where people have been forced to flee their homes and are now facing a bitterly cold winter without the basics needed to survive, is only possible because of the donations we receive.

We’re always amazed at, and incredibly grateful for, the dedication and determination of our supporters who give up their time, energy and even home comforts in support of ShelterBox at what is a time of personal sacrifice and reflection for many. 

However people decide to get involved with Tent for Lent, every penny donated can change the life of someone they’ll never meet.

 To get involved please visit: shelterbox.org/tentforlent 

Louisa Arnold  

Community Fundraising Officer at ShelterBox