Justin Bieber Launches #GiveBackPhilippines on Facebook to Help Children Affected by Typhoon Haiyan

Campaign launched in partnership with Prizeo, AIA and TV5

TORONTO, Dec. 4, 2013 /CNW/ - Justin Bieber announced today the launch of a new campaign on Facebook - #GiveBackPhilippines - in partnership with Prizeo, AIA and TV5 to raise money in support of the families affected by Typhoon Haiyan. Justin selected UNICEF as one of the three beneficiaries, kicking off the campaign by hosting a new challenge on charity website Prizeo.com.

As one of the most 'followed' celebrities on social media, Justin is committed to using his influence to help efforts to rebuild the lives of children and families shattered by the typhoon. 

#GiveBackPhilippines has been organized to harness the power of Facebook and social media to unite the world in support of the Philippines. In order to maximize the funds, all corporate partners have waived their fees, and Facebook will serve as the hub for Justin to share content, provide updates, and engage with his community on how to give back. Justin will also be making a personal gift.

"As the Philippines disaster slips from the headlines, we are grateful to Justin for helping to shift the focus back to the needs of children and families - needs that will continue for some time to come," said Paloma Escudero, UNICEF's Director of Communication. "The innovative approach of #GiveBackPhilippines will truly make a difference for the children affected, and hopefully will encourage Justin's followers around the world to make a long-term commitment to helping children."

With some 14 million people affected by the storm, including 5.5 million children, UNICEF has rushed lifesaving emergency supplies to the region, including essential medicines, nutrition, safe water and hygiene supplies. UNICEF is also working to reunite children with their families and is setting up safe, protected spaces where children can play, continue their education and resume a sense of normalcy. 

UNICEF is also concerned with the long term needs of families affected by the typhoon and will continue to work in the region to help communities rebuild.

"I have long been a fan of UNICEF's work, and it is my privilege to be able to support the organization as they respond to the needs of all who have been affected by Typhoon Haiyan, now and into the future," said Justin. "There are millions of children who have survived this terrible storm and who need our help. UNICEF is working to reach all of them with lifesaving supplies and to help our friends in the Philippines get back on their feet because they believe that no child is too far - and so do I".

Justin is encouraging Canadians to support #GiveBackPhilippines and benefit from the Government of Canada's matching program for Typhoon Haiyan relief.

"Helping the children affected by Typhoon Haiyan requires our long term commitment. UNICEF is working to help families rebuild and recover," said David Morley, President and CEO of UNICEF Canada. "We are grateful that Justin has called on his fans, including those across Canada, to help us save lives and reach every child."

To donate or participate in #GiveBackPhilippines, visit prizeo.com/GiveBackPHUNICEF.  

The Government of Canada will match eligible individual donations from Canadians (up to $100,000 per donation) until December 23, 2013.

To learn more about UNICEF's work in the Philippines visit unicef.ca/Philippines

About UNICEF

UNICEF has saved more children's lives than any other humanitarian organization. We work tirelessly to help children and their families, doing whatever it takes to ensure children survive. We provide children with healthcare and immunization, clean water, nutrition and food security, education, emergency relief and more.

UNICEF is supported entirely by voluntary donations and helps children regardless of race, religion or politics. As part of the UN, we are active in over 190 countries - more than any other organization. Our determination and our reach are unparalleled. Because nowhere is too far to go to help a child survive.

Follow UNICEF Canada on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE: UNICEF Canada

Layal Horanieh
Communications Specialist
UNICEF Canada
Office: 514-288-5134 ext. 8425,
Cell: 514 232-4510
[email protected].