Children's colouring day helps kids in conflict

Save the Children New Zealand is calling on Kiwi children to take part in a global colouring day to raise money for children living in countries affected by conflict.

A new international event called 'World Kids Colouring Day' on May 6, is encouraging students at primary schools across New Zealand – and the world – to auction, trade or appoint sponsors for drawings and pictures they've designed themselves.

All monies raised will go towards Save the Children's Rewrite the Future education programmes, which support efforts to give underprivileged children the chance of a better education and an escape from poverty.

"Colombia has been plagued for years by political unrest and social instability," says John Bowis, Executive Director of Save the Children New Zealand. "Half a million Colombian children are unable to go to school and thus have little or no chance for a future beyond poverty and violence.

"By taking part in World Kids Colouring Day, Kiwi schools and children can give hope and opportunity to children in Colombia.

"Education is the key to realising children's rights. For this reason Save the Children New Zealand is strongly committed to ensuring that children in conflict-affected countries can go to school.

"By 2010, Save the Children's Rewrite the Future programmes will have given 8 million children a brighter future, and one that's free from violence and abuse."

Teachers and parents are encouraged to talk to their schools about organising colouring activities and come up with a novel way of selling pictures to families and friends on May 6.

Participating schools can register at contact@world-kids-colouring-day.co.nz. They will receive starter packs of colouring books, pencils, posters and information.

Ideas and suggestions on ways to fundraise can be found at: www.world-kids-colouring-day.co.nz. To find out more about the Rewrite the Future Programme in Columbia, and the work of Save the Children, visit: www.savethechildren.org.nz.

This event is being supported by STAEDTLER which is also offering prizes to those schools that raise the most funds.

ENDS

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