We’re celebrating the success of the ‘Every Girl Matters Appeal’ thanks to the generosity of the public and match funding from the UK government.
We’re delighted to announced that the campaign has raised over £3.2 million, including £1,615,878 in match funding from the UK government. These vital funds will improve rural healthcare and girls’ access to education in rural Nepal, both of which have been badly affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
The ‘Every Girl Matters’ appeal ran from November 2020 to February 2021 with eligible donations from the UK public being doubled by the UK government UK Aid Match scheme. Donations and match funding will improve care for people with life-limiting illnesses. With their loved ones well cared for, young girl carers will be able to return to school and pursue their own hopes for the future.
Minister Wendy Morton, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office comments:
“Too often young girls in Nepal are forced to leave school to care for ill relatives. Your generous donations will provide care for thousands of terminally ill people and in turn help girls continue their education, safe in the knowledge that their loved ones are being cared for.
“Ensuring every girl gets twelve years of quality education is one of the smartest investments we can make to change the world, transforming the fortunes not just of individuals, but whole communities. That is why we are doubling all public donations to this vital appeal.”
Dr Cathy Ratcliff, CEO and Director of International Programmes, EMMS International, commented:
“We’re thrilled that, despite the pressures of the coronavirus pandemic, people have responded so generously to help rural communities in Nepal. Along with match funding from the UK government, this amazing sum of £3.2 million means our partners will ensure families battling chronic illness will get the care they deserve and so urgently need. Better care for loved ones means more girls will be able to stay in school and pursue their hopes for the future.”
The appeal featured the story of Sunita, a young girl who had to drop out of school to care for her parents. When her parents received the care they needed from EMMS International’s local partner INF Nepal, Sunita was able to return to school and break free from the cycle of sickness and poverty. Thanks to the amazing response, more families will get the care they need, restoring the hope of education for a brighter future.