NI fighter Leah McCourt wants to make dreams a reality this Christmas

NI fighter Leah McCourt wants to make dreams a reality this Christmas
Chris Thompson, NI Director, Tearfund is pictured with Bronagh Luke from SPAR NI, Leah McCourt and Nigel Harris, CEO, Tearfund to launch Tearfund’s Christmas Appeal for 2023.

Leah McCourt, Bellator MMA No.1 featherweight contender is throwing her weight behind global aid and development charity Tearfund’s latest appeal in partnership with SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO and ViVOXTRA.

The appeal, ‘Make Dreams a Reality this Christmas’, aims to raise money to support people living in extreme poverty around the world and will run until 31st December 2023.

“I will always be grateful to those who saw and helped me reach my potential. Everyone should have the opportunity to make their dreams a reality – and as a mother, when I hear about parents whose dreams are to feed their children or keep their families safe, I feel compelled to act. That’s why I’m delighted to support the Make Dreams a Reality appeal this Christmas,” said Leah.

Chris Thompson, Tearfund’s Director in Northern Ireland, added: ‘Recently, the threats of climate, conflict and the cost-of-living crisis have left already vulnerable people fighting to survive. We see this across the countries in which we work.

“That’s why we are so grateful to SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO and ViVOXTRA staff and shoppers for their support: we know this has, and will continue to make, a tangible difference in the lives of many of the most vulnerable across the globe.”

POSITIVE IMPACT

Marking the 11th partnership appeal in aid of Tearfund’s work, the funds raised over the years have positively impacted up to 493,487 individuals living in extreme poverty around the world.

Bronagh Luke from SPAR NI added: “Understanding exactly how the money raised over the years has helped those receiving training and resources from Tearfund is a powerful testament to just how important this annual appeal is.

“I have seen first-hand how funds from our appeals have helped families in Uganda and Rwanda, helping them rebuild their lives post-conflict and in the face of some of the most extreme conditions. I’d like to thank our shoppers in advance for supporting our appeal as we know everyone is feeling the effects of the cost-of-living crisis, so every penny is so gratefully received.”

Shoppers can be assured that every £1 raised in-store will be matched by the retailers, up to an amount of £300,000.

‘Make Dreams a Reality this Christmas’ is now live, with donation boxes in SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO and ViVOXTRA stores throughout Northern Ireland, running until 31 December 2023.Shoppers can also donate online and find out more via tearfund.org/dreams