5 things you can do to support people who are living in extreme poverty this year

2022 was a challenging year with conflict, climate challenges, rising food prices and the cost of living crisis pushing more people than ever into extreme poverty. When faced with difficult news day after day, and images of families struggling to eat, it is easy to feel helpless.

But what last year also demonstrated is just how many people care and want to show solidarity with people all over the world. With support, we were able to reach millions of vulnerable people across 25 the world’s poorest countries. From providing parents with emergency food for their malnourished children, to offering medical care and shelter to those fleeing conflict and climate emergencies, we’ve been able to achieve this and so much more because of all the people who care and offer support to those who need it most.

So, as we go into 2023, stand confident knowing that your actions can and do make a difference to the world around you. And in case you need some inspiration, below you will find five things to get you started.

1. Donate

Every day, our teams in 26 countries working to transform the lives of people living in extreme poverty. 76p from every pound donated goes towards our emergency response and long-term development work, working together with people living in the most difficult situations, rebuilding and transforming lives and livelihoods.

Our vision, our mission and our work are all defined by one goal – ending extreme poverty, whatever it takes. By donating today, you're helping us make this vision a reality, one step at a time.

2. Spread awareness 

You are part of a huge community of people who want to make a difference to people’s lives. If you care about families living in extreme poverty, you can be sure that other people you know will too. The extreme challenges that many people are facing are just one part of their story – they are also loving friends and family members with hobbies and dreams. Share their stories, share how they are working with charities like Concern Worldwide to transform their lives, and share how people in the UK can help them do that.

Follow us on social media, like and share our posts and talk to your friends and family about what you read.

3. Treat yourself (in one of Concern’s shops) 

If you live in, or are visiting, Northern Ireland then make a trip to one of our shops. We have six Concern charity shops across the region, from Belfast to Derry. Every sale makes a real difference in helping us tackle extreme poverty and transform lives.

So, the next time you’re in need of a new outfit, grab yourself a bargain, save clothing from going into landfill and know you’re helping us tackle extreme poverty – not bad for a morning shopping!

4. Get political

We are dedicated to shining a light on issues that affect the world's poorest people. Using our experience on the ground, we push for changes that will improve the lives of the people we work with. By tackling the root causes of poverty, we aim to achieve lasting change.

Concern supporters are an essential part of this. By using your voice, you help get our messages through to decision makers and push development issues up the political agenda.

Keep an eye out for ways you can get involved, every signature on a petition and tweet to your local MP builds political support for tackling extreme poverty.

5. Buy a – Concern Worldwide – gift 

Need a gift for a birthday or special occasion? By shopping Concern’s charity gifts range, you’ll find plenty of alternative present ideas to put a smile on your loved one’s face. Your shopping will help families living in the world’s poorest places work towards a brighter future.

Each gift represents our work with the people who need it most. You can buy our alternative gifts all year round.