Ethel Khundi benefitted from support she received from Gorta-Self Help Africa as a part of a livestock rearing programme in Uganda. This, and other work was funded from the sale of produce sold in Gorta-Self Help Africa's charity shops.

Gorta appealing for unwanted Communion and Confirmation attire

Irish charity Gorta-Self Help Africa is appealing to families to donate unwanted First Holy Communion and Confirmation wear this Spring, so that it can sell suits and dresses to its customers at a fraction of the price.

“People shouldn’t need to pay big sums of money for a dress or suit that a child might wear just the one time,' said Gorta-Self Help Africa retail manager Maggie Dwyer.

“We are asking families to think of others who may have First Holy Communion ceremonies coming up, and donate to us the suit or dress that was worn by their son or daughter.

'For the past number of years we have made an appeal at this time of year, and as a result have been able to find new owners for unwanted communion wear. This has saved people hundreds of euro in costs, into the bargain.' 

Funds raised from the re-sale of Holy Communion and Confirmation wear are donated directly to the development projects of Gorta-Self Help Africa, which supports a wide range of agricultural projects that are ending hunger and poverty in the lives of some of Africa’s poorest people.

Gorta-Self Help Africa has retail outlets in Cork, Bandon, Mallow, Macroom, Skibbereen, Limerick, Athy, Portlaoise, Galway and Dublin. Should you wish to donate Holy Communion or Confirmation wear the charity also has a vehicle, and can arrange collections, where necessary. To find out more, contact 01 6778880.