Concern launched its 2002 Concern Fast this morning to raise in the region of €2 million for its programmes in Africa, Asia and Latin America.
The charity is asking the public to "put their money where the mouth is" and contribute what they can to patricipants in the fast, which takes place tomorrow.
"This year a very special effort is needed, according to Mr Tom Arnold, Chief Executive of Concern said.
"In southern Africa a terrible food shortage is creating one of the worst crises to threaten the continent since the 1984 famine in Ethiopia."An estimated 20 million people are at risk, children in particular are the most vulnerable."
Last year's fast and raised a total of €1.3 million or £814,000.
