National UNICEF Day - Celebrating Canada's Philanthropic Spirit - October
31st

TORONTO, Oct. 26 /CNW/ - While many think of Halloween as a time for costumes, candy and celebration, it's important to remind Canadian's that October 31^st has been declared National UNICEF Day by the Government of Canada.  An occasion to celebrate Canada's generous contributions to the children around the world, it's also a timely reminder that thousands of children rely on UNICEF's support for their very survival. Twenty-two thousand children die every day from mainly preventable causes. UNICEF believes that number should be zero.

"Canadians have supported UNICEF for over 55 years, providing funds for the world's neediest children," said Sue Larkin, UNICEF Canada. "We are extremely grateful to Canadians for their continued generosity, but also want to stress that the need for fundraising is greater than ever. This October, Canadians have the opportunity to participate in National UNICEF Day and help us achieve our goal of zero preventable deaths."

By supporting National UNICEF Day Canadians can make a meaningful difference with the click of a button. Donations have the capacity to significantly change a child's life.  Examples of what donations can achieve include:

• $10 buys a life-saving bed net
• $25 provides therapeutic milk to save a malnourished child's life
• $87 purchases a bicycle that can help fetch water and do chores
• $509 will buy a community water pump to provide life-giving water
• $1,420 will purchase a school tent
• $5,200 will provide education supplies for an entire school

The traditional Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF campaign raised more than $100 million in funds since its inception in Canada in 1955. What began with the iconic orange collection box has evolved into a comprehensive fundraising program that extends throughout the month of October, culminating in National UNICEF Day on October 31.  While the orange collection box is no longer in use, Canadians can get involved through their schools, communities and workplaces or by visiting www.unicef.ca.  By taking the program virtual, all Canadians can participate and reignite the nostalgia associated with the orange box.

About UNICEF
UNICEF is on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence. The world's largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments. For more information about UNICEF Canada and its work visit: www.unicef.ca.

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