USA for Africa 30 Year Anniversary!Posted: Mon, Jan 26, 2015By: Danielle Heard, MS, HHC Artemis in the City Blog Home It is hard to believe but it has been thirty years since the United Support of Artists for Africa recorded the song “We are the World” to try to alleviate the extreme starvation occurring in Africa and also hunger at home in America. This extraordinary group of artists raised over $75 million to fight hunger and poverty in Africa and also $25 million to fight hunger in the United States. Because of people like you who bought the record, many lives were saved. But malnutrition and starvation are still very serious problems and each year millions of people die unnecessary deaths. Statistically, between 800 and 900 million people in the world do not have enough food to eat and tragically over 3 million children under the age of five die each year from unnecessary death. These statistics are hard to believe for those living in more developed areas of the world. Ironically among more wealthy nations diseases that are lifestyle related, which are also diseases of excess, far exceed infectious disease or starvation. One only needs to look at the “Hungry Planet: What the World Eats," photos taken by Peter Menzel to really grasp just how excessive many families live compared to those in some of the poorest parts of the world. Nutrition is critical for development and health. For example, currently over 250 million children are at risk for vitamin A deficiency. Without healthy foods that contain rich sources of vitamin A, blindness can occur. This is a leading cause of blindness and yet it is completely preventable. Iodine deficiency is another serious problem. Without adequate iodine in the diet, permanent brain damage can result. There are many organizations working hard to address world hunger and poverty issues. Please consider making a donation to help the many starving people in the world. Here is a list of reputable organizations to consider or please make a donation to your favorite charity. There are many local food pantries and soup kitchens who really need your support.
1. USA for Africa – you can still purchase the music in support of a wonderful cause! USA for Africa recording session January 28, 1985
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