The SCIAF Wee Box appeal is offering support to Cambodian families this year

An international appeal has received a significant funding boost.

The Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund’s (SCIAF) Wee Box Lent Appeal will see its funding doubled, thanks to the UK government Aid Match scheme.

The annual appeal raises vital funds for the charity’s life-changing work in Africa, Asia and Latin America, and helps some of the poorest people in the world who struggle to survive due to hunger, poverty, disease and natural disasters.

Thousands of supporters in schools and church parishes across Scotland raise money for the appeal every year by giving up a favourite treat, like coffee or chocolate, for the 40 days of Lent, and putting the money saved in their Wee Box or by holding their own fundraising events.

The announcement will see every pound raised by the appeal doubled, with the 2018 drive set to launch on 14 February with a focus on supporting poor families in Cambodia.

“This will help us give many more people the help they need so they can work their way out of poverty and have a better future,” said SCIAF director Alistair Dutton.

“I urge everyone to take advantage of this amazing offer and make sure your money goes twice as far.”

International development secretary Penny Mordaunt said: “It is vital that we help the poorest people stand on their own two feet. SCIAF’s Wee Box appeal is doing just that by protecting the rights of fishermen and farmers in Cambodia and giving them the tools they need to boost their incomes and support their families.”