Scottish Catholic Observer

It was ‘chocs away’ as Susan Boyle launched the SCIAF Wee Box, Big Change appeal in Glasgow this morning.

“I’m giving up sweets and chocolate for SCIAF this Lent,” she said at the launch. “I know every penny they get will be used in practical ways to help poor people support themselves in the long term so they can fulfil their own dreams of a future with respect and human dignity.”

Ms Boyle launched the appeal at SCIAF’s offices where she was welcomed by staff, young SCIAF supporters and volunteers. Speaking at the launch she said she was delighted to take part in charity’s campaign that was near and dear to her.

The Grammy-nominated singer is just one of many Scottish stars from the worlds of music, television, sport and business—and hundreds of thousand of ordinary Scots—who are giving up favourite treats for Lent this year to help raise money for the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund.

Other celebrities who are backing this year’s SCIAF Lent campaign, which focuses on Haiti but will help those in need in many developing countries, include Harry Potter actress Katie Leung (see picture below), singer songwriter Eddi Reader, Scotland football captain and Manchester United player Darren Fletcher (see picture below), businesswoman Michelle Mone, broadcasters Kaye Adams and Sally Magnusson, and Charlie and Craig Reid of The Proclaimers.

Paul Chitnis, SCIAF chief executive, said he was deeply grateful for the support of Susan Boyle and all the other famous faces, saying that it will make a huge difference to the people SCIAF works with in poor countries.