Donations to HIV/Aids orphans doubled today with The Big Give

Fr Mike with two blind children

Redemptorist priest Father Mike Shea is calling on people to donate online from 10am today, to help feed HIV/Aids orphans in the flood-stricken north east of Thailand. Every pound given will be doubled by sponsors of The Big Give.

The funds are urgently needed for Sarnelli House - an orphanage run by Fr Mike and supported by the Thai Children’s Trust. It is home to some 200 children who are HIV positive, or who have been orphaned or abandoned as a result of the virus.

A balanced, nutritious diet is essential for the growth and development of these children, some of whom arrive at Fr Mike’s doorstep extremely unwell and near death.

Money raised will go towards buying neighbouring arable land on which to grow rice and vegetables as well as raise livestock to provide a sustainable source of food for the children.

Thailand continues to suffer from the lasting effects of the recent floods. By helping Sarnelli become self-sufficient, you can provide greater security to Fr Mike and the children. Growing their own food will not only guarantee hot meals, it will also provide life-long skills and long-term employment on the land to young residents who have been badly affected by the virus.

To see a film about Sarnelli House go to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cu9dIyKZGOo

To donate to the Big Give see: www.thaichildrenstrust.org.uk/thebiggive.