In response to the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, Virgin Atlantic will dedicate its onboard charity appeal, Change For Children, to the Disasters Emergency Committee’s Sudan Emergency Appeal, onboard all inbound and outbound flights for one week from Friday 23 July 2004.  The collection will be made in place of the current Change For Children Appeal. 

Sir Richard Branson, Chairman of Virgin Atlantic commented:

“Everyone must pull together and support the DEC’s efforts to provide emergency aid to the thousands of men, woman and children who have been forced to flee their homes because of the violence in Darfur.

“I would like to take this opportunity to urge passengers to give generously to our Change For Children Appeal and remember that their contribution can make a big difference to the suffering of those refugees in Africa’s largest country.”

Change For Children is Virgin Atlantic’s onboard collection that supports charities undertaking specific healthcare projects for the benefit of children worldwide.  A cabin crew announcement is made which encourages passengers to donate loose change or notes they may be carrying to support the current appeal.  Any currency is accepted.

The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) is an umbrella organisation, which launches and coordinates the UK’s National Appeal in response to major disasters overseas.  The DEC was originally set up by an group of aid agencies back in 1963 and brings together a unique alliance of Britain’s aid, corporate, public and broadcasting sectors to rally the nation’s compassion and ensure that funds raised go to those charities best placed to deliver effective and timely relief to people most in need.
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