In 2008/9, £5.5 billion of UK government spending went on aid whilst £29.2 billion of government spending went on bailing out Northern Rock. Yet 64 million more people are expected to be living in extreme poverty by the end of 2010 as a result of the global economic crisis.

Behind the door of 10 Downing Street is a Prime Minister with the power to cut poverty. But he’ll only act if we call upon him to do so. Our faith challenges us to stand alongside people living in poverty both at home and abroad. Our decisions and voices can change life for the better for our neighbours here at home and in developing countries. All three main political parties agree it’s vital to tackle climate change, increase aid and make business work for the poor.

Will you help us send 10,000 messages to No 10 by 10.10.10 asking for action on aid, business and climate change. Order CAFOD’s ACT ON POVERTY campaign action pack and cards for your parish and encourage parishioners to sign them. Would you be willing to hold a card signing event after your Sunday Mass? Or, what about a card signing event in your local town centre?

For more details about Connect2 and ACT ON POVERTY, please contact David or Carol at your CAFOD Diocesan Office on (01904) 671767 or e-mail middlesbrough@cafod.org.uk or visit www.cafod.org.uk

CAFOD Volunteers needed: Do you have a couple of hours a week or month to spare? Are you interested in volunteering for CAFOD? We need people willing to be trained in the following areas: campaign contacts, schools volunteers, MP correspondents, press and media, spirituality, speakers at Mass, parish contacts for Fast Days, people to help us organise CAFOD events locally – the possibilities are endless.