Australia’s youth preparing to fight global hunger

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

With less than one month to go before the 40 Hour Famine, more than 300,000 young people around the country are planning fundraising activities to fight world hunger and poverty.

Over the weekend of 19 - 21 August, young people are giving up something important to them for 40 hours such as food, technology, and transport, to get a taste of what life is like for children who have to go without.

“The face of hunger and famine is on our televisions and in our newspapers once again as a result of the devastating drought in East Africa,” says World Vision CEO Tim Costello.

“The desperate need of more than 13 million people in East Africa is a reminder that there are millions of children and families around the world who struggle to find enough food to eat.

“While the images and need can seem overwhelming, each of us can make a difference, for example $40 can feed a family of five for one month.”

Nationally more than 5,000 schools, churches and community groups are taking part in the 40 Hour Famine in addition to upwards of 20,000 individuals.

“While giving up food is one way to fundraise, it’s not the only thing people are giving up for 40 hours,” says National Youth Coordinator Daryl Brown.

“Each year young people are coming up with new and different ways to imagine what it feels like to live without essentials items and modern conveniences. 

“Some individuals are giving up TV, mobile phones, the internet, computers, furniture, talking, and hearing, or a combination of things.

“School groups have come up with many creative ideas to fundraise including sleepovers, concerts, barbeques, movie sessions, out of uniform days, guest speakers and there’s even a drama teacher dressing up as Darth Vader.

“This year many young people are creating a personal profile on the 40 Hour Famine website and blogging about their plans and experiences. The online community gives people fundraising ideas and connects them with other participants who are equally passionate about making a difference.”

The funds raised by the 40 Hour Famine will support World Vision’s work in East Timor, Nepal, Cambodia, Laos, Tanzania, Kenya, and help World Vision respond to emergencies around the world. These projects are working to increase reliable access to food and clean water, and develop livelihoods through education, micro-finance, and investment in agriculture.

World Vision is urging young Australians to register at www.40hourfamine.com to help millions in need.

 

Media contact: Janet Craven, World Vision Media Officer, 03 9287 2560 / 0407819347; email: janet.craven@worldvision.com.au

Note to Editors: There are World Vision Youth Ambassadors available for interview in each state and we will endeavour to put you in touch with local schools in your state or area.

Media Releases, Poverty, Asia and the Pacific, 40 Hour Famine, East Timor, Ethiopia, Famine, Foreign Aid, Kenya, Nepal, Philanthropy, Tanzania, Tim Costello, Young People

Back to all Results