There is an alternative to the global charities that are gobbling up our charitable donations. British Vegetarian Charity Vegfam is just one.

"For over 30 years, Vegfam has been working with and influencing major charities around the world, by co-financing projects that do not exploit animals. Vegfam works through indigenous on-the-spot representatives, and works with existing charities to support immediate and long-term food and water-aid projects. In working with existing charities, Vegfam educates these groups about the need for relief efforts that do not feed the hungry at the expense of animals and the environment" says Freya Dinshah from The American Vegan Society.

One look at their website and you kind of realise the money goes straight to the people.

 http://www.veganvillage.co.uk/vegfam/

Based in West Devon UK they are however still recieving massive support and their work does not go unnoticed.

From This is Devon 13th January 2005

The registered charity, which is based at Lydford, near Okehampton, and was set up in 1963, aims to send teams to Madurai in India to distribute parcels of food aid. Donations can be sent to Vegfam Earthquake Appeal, The Sanctuary, Lydford, Devon, EX20 4AL.

Help them to help you not compromise your beliefs and constructively make a difference that's kinder to people animals and the environment.

Unfortunately they don't even take credit cards yet but there is a facility to send dollars if you are outside UK.

See IVU (International Vegetarian Union) Website at

 http://www.ivu.org/congress/wvc96/vegfam.html