GORTA AND THE RAI URGE THE PUBLIC TO HELP LOCAL BUSINESSES AND

SUPPORT ‘SOUP FOR LIFE’ 5^th-11^th March 2012

Gorta – the Freedom from Hunger Council of Ireland, the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) and Derry Clarke of L’Ecrivain today launched ‘Soup for Life’, Gorta’s annual fundraising campaign which encourages people to get out and sip some soup to help make hunger history.

At a time when supporting local business is paramount, the campaign is very much focused on the participation of local restaurants and encourages people to get out and support their favourite eateries. For each bowl of soup sold between the 5^th and the 11^th of March €1 will be donated to Gorta’s work fighting the causes of hunger in poverty stricken Uganda.

Speaking at the launch, Gorta CEO Brian Hanratty said “Soup is a simple meal, which is full of nutrients and it is one which is enjoyed all across the globe. All of our programmes in sub-Saharan Africa focus mainly on nutritional elements, as this in an integral part of improving food security.

He continued, “In particular, this campaign raises funds to support a programme in Uganda which aims to alleviate food insecurity, especially that which originates from nutrient deficiencies in women and children. All money raised will go towards providing seeds and seedlings, rooster hens and training and planning on nutrition and food security to communities in Uganda.”

Adrian Cummins, CEO of the RAI added, “This campaign is really a win/win situation when one thinks of the many struggling businesses there are in the restaurant sector, particularly in relation to independent retailers. This campaign is all about getting people out to their local eatery and supporting this initiative which will ultimately help those who are struggling to provide food for themselves and their families. The RAI are proud to partner with Gorta on ‘Soup for Life’ and I would urge all of our members to get involved.”

The campaign was a huge success last year, with many of Dublin and Cork’s finest eateries taking part in the action including the Avoca Group, Cornucopia, Itsa, Wagamama and the Insomnia Coffee Company in Dublin and Café Paradiso, Blair’s Inn, Amicus and The Cornstore in Cork. ‘Soup for Life’ was also supported by Cork’s food entrepreneurs Cully & Sully, who donated 5c per carton of soup sold throughout the week.