Leading Newry-based rug retailer Kukoon have said they are “lost for words” after their commitment to donate all revenue from a single day’s sales raised almost £178,000 to help save lives in Gaza.
The decision to donate their revenue was taken by Kukoon’s owners – brother and sister duo Paul and Clare Vallely – when UN-backed global food security experts warned “the worst-case scenario of famine” was unfolding in Gaza.
This alert – issued by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) – also says there is mounting evidence that widespread starvation, malnutrition and disease are driving a rise in hunger-related deaths among the 2.1million population.
When the carpet and rug experts announced their incredible fundraising effort they did so with the expectation to raise in the region of £40,000.
Explaining why they have decided to take this step now, they said they felt they could no longer watch on and do nothing.
They said: “We’ve watched the situation unfold with heavy hearts.
“Children should never be caught in conflict and what’s happening right now is deeply wrong. We want to stand for compassion, care and what’s right.”
On Friday, August 8, Kukoon committed to donating 100% of their revenue from online and in-store sales to the Oxfam Gaza Appeal.
And, in an update published by the company today (Monday) they are delighted to announce that they exceeded all expectations!
Thanking their customers, Kukoon said: “On Friday you showed up like never before, and because of you, we’re donating an astounding £177, 993.98 to the Oxfam Gaza Appeal.
“You’ve surpassed every hope we had. We are grateful beyond measure and inspired by your compassion. Thank you for making this happen.”
Every £9 raised can support 10 families to access water for a day or one family for a week while £43 can provide one family with ready-to eat food parcels for a week.
For more information, or to donate directly, visit Oxfam and Gaza Crisis Appeal website.
