Rt Hon David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Crayford, recently attended a Christian Aid Big Brekkie event in Parliament, to show his support for Christian Aid Week, which is 13-19 May. This year Christian Aid Week is encouraging the British public to stand together with the millions of displaced people who have been forced to leave their homes around the world.
Today, more than 40 million people are internally displaced by conflict, accounting for approximately two thirds of those who find themselves forced from their homes. A further 24 million were displaced by disasters in 2016 alone.
Christian Aid works with local partner organisations around the world to help internally displaced people. This includes working with partners in Haiti, where thousands of people have been displaced by natural disasters in recent years.
Mr Evennett has raised the issue of internally displace people in both oral and written Parliamentary Questions, and also attended a Westminster Hall Debate on the issue last week. Following the Big Breakkie event he commented: “I was pleased to be able to meet with representatives from Christian Aid to learn about the work they are doing in my constituency of Bexleyheath and Crayford, as well as the fantastic work they are doing to help people around the world who have been forced to leave their homes. Millions of people are displaced every year for a number of reasons, from conflict to natural disasters, and whilst the Government does provide vital support through the foreign aid budget, it is important that we continue to raise awareness where possible.”
Simon Kirkland, Christian Aid's UK Parliamentary and Political Adviser, said: "We are very grateful for David Evennett’s support for Christian Aid's important fundraising events in Bexleyheath and Crayford. Everyone can do something to help this Christian Aid Week, whether it's attending a local event, giving money or praying for the world's many displaced people at this difficult time. Thank you to everyone who is able to take part in this year's Christian Aid Week."