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There are millions of charities you
could choose to support, it's all a question of personal preference, but
below is a selection of the ones I take a particular interest in and a
word about why I've chosen these particular causes.
The reason I have such a strong bias
towards charities that deal with developing countries is that, while there
are people in need in the 'Western' world, those needs are generally not
as critical or prevalent as those elsewhere. While I sympathise with, say,
blind people who need a trained helper dog, orphan children who have never
had a seaside holiday or retired greyhounds, I think the needs of a human
being without basic necessities such as shelter, water, freedom of speech
etc must be given far higher priority.
I also feel quite strongly that there are certain
causes in this country that are extremely important but should be wholly
funded by the government and not by charitable donations. Things such as:
Medical research for major diseases, hospice provsion, comprehensive care
for old people, help for homeless people, educational needs. Basically all
the things that a proper welfare state ought to be taking care
of.
Click on an image to open that
organisation's website in a new window..
"Amnesty
International is a worldwide movement of people who campaign for
internationally recognized human rights for all."
"Practical Action works with poor communities
to help them choose and use technology to improve their lives for today
and generations to come."
"WaterAid's vision is of a world where everyone
has access to safe water and sanitation."
"Comic Relief's vision is a just world free
from poverty. Our mission is to drive positive change through the power of
entertainment."
"The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) was
formed in 1963. We are an umbrella organisation for 13
humanitarian aid agencies. At times of overseas emergency, the
DEC brings together a unique alliance of the UK's aid, corporate, public
and broadcasting sectors to rally the nation's compassion, and ensure that
funds raised go to DEC agencies best placed to deliver effective and
timely relief to people most in need."
"Oxfam is a vibrant global movement of
dedicated people fighting poverty. Together. Doing amazing work. Together.
People power drives everything we do. From saving lives and developing
projects that put poor people in charge of their lives and livelihoods, to
campaigning for change that lasts. That’s Oxfam in action."
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