After decades of conflict and political instability, the people of Burundi are returning to their homes, after leaving to escape the conflict and in the process, losing everything.

One of the poorest countries in the world, Burundi is in crisis, therefore Tearfund has been working with local partners to enable their people to get back on their feet, to rebuild and thrive once more.

The people of Burundi are at the centre of this year’s Tearfund appeal in partnership with SPAR, EUROSPAR and ViVO branded stores, where every £1 raised in store will be matched by the Henderson Group.

The Hope to Hearts Appeal will run until 31 December 2022 and aims to raise over £400,000 towards the efforts of Tearfund’s international partners in helping the people of Burundi rebuild their lives.

Bronagh Luke, Head of Corporate Marketing at Henderson Group commented; “This is a vital appeal, and one where we can help effect change and bring hope to the lives of those who need it most.

“We have almost 500 SPAR, EUROSPAR and ViVO branded stores across Northern Ireland, with some of the most generous shoppers who have helped us raise over £900,000 in the past two years for Tearfund’s life-changing programmes which help some of the poorest nations around the world, whether they have been affected by conflict, climate change or covid in recent years.

“We thank our shoppers in advance for supporting our Tearfund appeal as we know everyone is feeling the effects of the cost of living crisis, so every penny you’re able to afford is gratefully received.”

Glen Mitchell, NI Director at Tearfund added; “To see the donations received by SPAR, EUROSPAR and ViVO shoppers turned into life saving and life enhancing programmes in countries like Burundi is incredible.

“Just £3 doubled, thanks to Henderson’s match funding support, means we can plant 170 jackfruit trees to support an entire community – not only with food supplies – but to earn income by selling the crops. £5 doubled could help provide training for savings and income programmes, while £10 doubled could help set up new self help groups to train members in ways to escape poverty.

“We are grateful for every penny to help us change the fear in these communities’ hearts into hope for their and their children’s futures.”

Shoppers can donate to Tearfund’s Hearts of Hope campaign in any SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO, ViVOXTRA and ViVO Essentials store across Northern Ireland, or online by visiting tearfund.org/hopetohearts or scanning the QR codes in stores. The campaign will be supported by Henderson Group with in-store point of sale, radio, digital and an out of home campaign.