IT was a huge honour to be chosen as the seasonal appeal partner by The Herald and we are incredibly grateful to your readers who have given so generously to support the work of Mercy Corps around the world.

In many ways 2017 has shown the world to be more fragile than ever. With food shortages leaving millions of people hungry, and violent conflict forcing millions to flee their homes, it’s easy to see a world of insurmountable challenges. But with these challenges there is always an opportunity. An opportunity to create lasting change, to build stronger, more resilient communities.

This is the foundation upon which Mercy Corps is built and it has been heartening to see that your readers share our belief that a better world is possible. As a global organisation, Mercy Corps is on the ground in more than 40 countries, helping people to recover from crisis and build stronger, more resilient communities. From empowering marginalised girls, through to supporting families fleeing conflict, none of our work would be possible without the trust and generosity of our supporters.

So from everyone at Mercy Corps, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the readers of The Herald. Your support will help us change lives in 2018, for good.

Simon O’Connell,

Executive Director, Mercy Corps Europe,

40 Sciennes, Edinburgh.