HACKETTSTOWN -- Wars and natural disasters all over the world dominate the daily headlines, but behind the scenes and far from the spotlight, hunger and preventable diseases claim the lives of 26,000 of the world's children each day.
Right now, more than 840 million people around the world don't have enough to eat. Annually, more than 9 million children under the age of five die from disease and malnutrition as a result of hunger.
But world hunger is 100 percent preventable and teens from Trinity United Methodist Church will be joined by youth from Newton, Sparta, Vernon, and Simpson United Methodist Churches. They are ready to be a part of the solution.
On May 1-2, they will be joining the efforts of hundreds of thousands of young people all over the nation who will set aside the usual "stuff" that fills their daily lives. Instead, they "WILL STARVE FOR FOOD" - the theme for World Vision's 30 Hour Famine this year, by going without food for 30 hours to get a taste of what the world's poorest children and families face everyday. Prior to the event weekend, students raise funds with the knowledge that every $30 they raise can help feed and care for a child for a month. Groups also are encouraged to perform hands-on service projects during the weekend in order to make a difference in their own community as well.
As part of the Famine, these youth will be doing community will service projects throughout the area including:
-- Assembling a prayer labyrinth in Starr Hall that symbolizes and brings to focus that 26,000 children die daily from starvation, malnutrition, and related diseases.
-- Shopping at area grocery stores to supply the Lord's Pantry with additional food and supplies that are desperately needed in the difficult economic times.
-- Participating in the Hackettstown Spring Festival to raise awareness, answer questions, and solicit donations.
On Friday evening, May 1, Linda Nolan from World Vision will be the keynote speaker. Prior to the breaking of the 30 hour fast, there will be a worship service at 6 p.m. at Trinity House on Moore Street. All are invited.
Funds raised by 30 Hour Famine participants help feed and care for children in poverty-afflicted countries around the globe. Additionally, a portion of funds raised will support World Vision's efforts to assist families in need in the United States. 30 Hour Famine funds contribute to World Vision's response in areas where famine, conflict, and other crises make children vulnerable to hunger and preventable disease. Since 1992, 30 Hour Famine has raised more than $118 million, representing countless saved lives. World Vision works in 100 countries, helping approximately 100 million people every year.
Visit www.30hourfamine.org or call 800-7-FAMINE for more information.