An earthquake relief charity founded in Highland Perthshire is asking for donations to keep coming while fundraising is impossible because of coronavirus.
Anna and Sanu Gurung from Kenmore began Bring Back The Smile To Nepal (BBTSTN) after a devastating earthquake there in 2015.
Thanks to fantastic public support, the charity has managed to reach some of the remotest parts of Nepal, building new homes, providing help and materials, as well as assisting schools and many other projects.
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Recognition of their efforts came in 2016 when Anna and Sanu were invited to meet Her Majesty The Queen at the Royal Garden Party.
The registered Scottish charity had an ambitious plan of fundraising during 2020, coupled with a bold rebuilding programme in Nepal.
Unfortunately, the coronavirus pandemic effectively brought an abrupt end to all the charity’s planned activities for the year.
However, the problems in Nepal did not end.
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Charity founder Anna explained: “With coronavirus presenting us with so many problems here at home, it’s easy for us to forget about the rest of world.
“Life for many people in Nepal still continues to be a daily struggle, even without the virus.
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“BBTSTN has very specific recipients in mind, and we ensure aid goes exactly where it is needed most urgently.
“For example, we are currently looking to help Lal Maya Sarke who is a widow in a shack, or Mangal Saakehe who lost his toes, probably through undiagnosed leprosy and needs a safe place to live”
Anna spelt out the difficult situation her charity currently faces: “We are no longer able to undertake many of our traditional methods of fundraising, such as market stalls, bagpacks and events.
“While we hope to return to our regular fundraising events as soon as we can, in the meantime we urgently need your help to continue our work effectively.
“Donations can be made via our website at www.bringbackthesmiletonepal.org and you can find out more on Facebook too.”
