Sikh Comic Sanjeev Kohli urges Scots to use their ‘Catholic’ WEE BOX

Top Scots comedian Sanjeev Kohli is backing this year’s WEE BOX campaign for the world’s poorest people, saying it’s not just for Catholics!  

Sanjeev said:

“I’m a Sikh but went to a Catholic school in Glasgow, so grew up knowing and supporting SCIAF.  

“It’s the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund, but their amazing projects overseas help people of all faiths and none – not everyone knows that! They often work through church organisations in countries like Malawi and Zambia and are rightly proud of these roots, but they help everyone – purely on the basis of need. No questions asked.” 

The actor and comedian was in Rutherglen to help the humanitarian charity to launch its annual WEE BOX, BIG CHANGE appeal, which raises vital funds for its life-changing work in Africa, Asia and Latin America during Lent.   

Each year generous Scots up and down the country give up a favourite treat such as coffee, chocolate, wine or crisps during Lent and put the money they save into a SCIAF WEE BOX.  Supporters also hold fundraising events in their communities and take on personal challenges to raise money. They then donate it at Easter to provide a hand-up to vulnerable communities worldwide, struggling to survive due to hunger, poverty and the climate emergency.  

This year, our WEE BOX Appeal focusses on emergency relief and peace-building projects in Chocó, the poorest part of Colombia. 

Sanjeev added:

“Like many people I grew up with SCIAF but it’s really only now as an adult I can fully appreciate how special it is. It was founded in a classroom in Rutherglen in 1965 by Scots who wanted to reach out in love to those less fortunate - and it’s been spreading that love and compassion ever since. There really is something very special about that.” 

Lorraine Currie, SCIAF’s Chief Executive said:

“We are so delighted to have Sanjeev’s backing this year. At SCIAF, we support people of all faiths and none and believe that no one should be left behind. And that’s what’s been driving us for the last 60 years. I want to thank everyone who helped us be there for our poorest sisters and brothers over the years.

“Please give what you can to the SCIAF appeal this year. Even a small donation makes a huge difference. With your support, a better world is possible.”