Red Nose Day 2017: Here’s How You Can Help End Child Poverty
If you’ve seen people wearing red clown noses today, don’t worry, it’s not the latest fashion trend. Instead, it’s for a much more important reason — Red Nose Day.
The day is celebrated as a way to raise money to end child poverty around the globe. Although it’s been recognized in the United Kingdom for nearly three decades, Red Nose Day is fairly new to the United States, having launched in 2015. The fundraising campaign has since raised more than $60 million in the U.S. alone and over $1 billion globally.
Read: Children In Poverty More Likely To Suffer From Asthma, ADHD, And Other Chronic Health Conditions
It’s organized by a non-profit organization called Comic Relief, Inc. The campaign’s red, foam noses are used as a conversation starter and provide a fun way to bring together adults and children alike.
In the U.S., the noses can be purchased for $1 at Walgreens and Duane Reade. All of the money raised goes towards projects supporting kids' safety, health, and education in the U.S. and 25 countries internationally. The organization collaborates with a number of well-established charities such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Save The Children. Red Nose Day’s website provides a long list of what donations may go towards: food, clean water, vaccines, clothing, textbooks, supplies, and more.
There’s plenty of ways to get involved and show support without buying a nose. By joining or organizing your own fundraiser, you can raise money for children in need. Here’s a few fundraising ideas from Red Nose Day’s website:
Head Over To Facebook
If you create a personal Facebook fundraiser, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will match every donation earned, up to $1 million.
Have A Bake Sale
Buy or bake some sweet treats to sell for a good cause.
Read: Early Intervention Programs Can Save Brain Development Of Children Below The Poverty Level
Create A Swear Jar
“Put your money where your mouth is - literally,” the site says. Every time you swear, pledge to put a tip in the jar.
Host A Movie Night
Organize a movie night for your friends, family, or neighbors. Charge an admission fee at the door and sell red noses and snacks.
Throw A Party
If you'd rather a more social event than watching a movie, consider hosting a party. Charge admission for a night filled with red-themed appetizers and drinks.
Get Up And Move
Get fit for a good cause by getting sponsored to walk, bike, or run to work or school.
For more information, visit the Red Nose Day website at rednoseday.org.
See also: Poverty, Not Race, Increases A Woman's Risk Of Unintended Pregnancy
Poverty Around The World: People Forced To Choose Between Food And Money, UN Warns