A Dungannon women's group has learned how local fundraising supports daily meals for nearly 1,000 children at a school in Malawi. Members of Dungannon Ladies Probus hosted speakers from the Coalisland and District branch of Mary's Meals, who explained the charity's work in some of the world's poorest communities.

The local branch funds meals for 970 pupils at Khungulu Primary School in Malawi. It costs £19.15 to provide a child with a nutritious meal every school day for a full year. The charity's motto 'School + Food = Hope' reflects its aim to encourage attendance and help children concentrate on education.

The Coalisland and District branch needs to raise £17,369.05 annually to fund the meals at the Malawian school. Fundraising activities include an annual Canal Walk in June, street collections, coffee mornings, and collection boxes in local businesses. Speakers told members that 93 pence of every pound raised goes directly to the feeding programme, with surplus funds directed to other areas of need.

The Armagh branch of Mary's Meals operates a charity shop at Benburb Priory. Stalls will be present at St Anne's Craft Fair at the end of November and Killyman Craft Fair the following week.

Following the talk, a collection was held to support the charity. President Vivienne Quinn thanked the speakers and highlighted the poverty facing communities in Malawi. Helen Brown presented the visitors with a small token of appreciation.