AID for the West Africa Food Crisis Appeal is being provided thanks to the huge generosity of people within the area. The appeal has now become an international cry for help, with 13 charities merging under the DEC (Disasters Emergency Committee), in which any money raised between now and the end of the appeal, Saturday, August 13, will be go directly to Niger. Some of the money raised through the shops will be used in a food support programme in which work, such as the removal of animal carcasses, is paid for in vouchers which are then exchanged for food. Jacky Theobald, manager of both Tavistock and Okehampton Oxfam shops said: ?We have been overwhelmed with the local generosity. In times of crisis not everyone can give money ? one of the most precious gifts is to give time to the shop?. ?It is all community based. Tavistock is one of the top performing shops in the UK, and it is to do with the turn-over and contributions to Oxfam. There are 7-800 shops in the chain and Tavistock and Okehampton are in the top 75, which is all down to the support that the community gives us?. The Tsunami appeal benefited greatly from local support, and has now moved into the recovery phase. Great Britain has currently spent £9,705,000 on the Tsunami and by the end of the year will have spent £37 million in helping to rebuild people?s lives. Oxfam is run entirely by volunteers, and there are never enough. Tavistock and Okehampton Oxfam Shops would be delighted to hear from people who could volunteer any of their time. For more information about becoming a volunteer contact Jacky, manager of the two shops on 01822 613901 for Tavistock or 01837 54675 for the Okehampton shop.