Every year the 30-Hour Famine, a World Vision Canada fundraising initiative, helps more and more people understand what it's like for impoverished people to go without food. While many countries struggle to maintain an appropriate food supply for their citizens, this year there is an added level of importance to the event.
The organization has turned it into a relief and recovery effort for those still struggling to overcome the devastation of a recent natural disaster. It has been almost three months since a 7.0-magnitude earthquake occurred just west of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, destroying the homes of millions and killing or injuring several hundred thousand others. While many have said that the country will never be the same, there has also been an outpouring of support with some of the world's leaders and aid organizations stating that they intend to build it back even better than before.
The 30-Hour Famine takes place from April 16 to 17. This year's goal is $5 million and already more than 100,000 Canadian youth are scheduled to participate. Last year, St Albert residents raised more than $1,700 to support the Christian relief, development and advocacy organization's ongoing efforts to eradicate hunger, poverty and injustice around the world.
Call 1-800-7-FAMINE (732-6463) or visit www.30hourfamine.org for more information.
All-Stars support Alzheimer's
There will be two unique hockey games taking place on Saturday and Sunday as part of a major charity's unique initiative.
The Scotiabank Pro-Am for Alzheimer's benefits the Gordie and Colleen Howe Fund, a financial support stream for the Alzheimer Society to conduct research into the disease in this province. Making special appearances to raise a lot of awareness for the cause are some legends of the game including Glenn Anderson, Paul Coffey, Dave Hunter, Mike Krushelnyski, Dave Lumley, Marty McSorley and Lanny McDonald. Admission to the games is free with seating provided on a first come, first served basis.
There are about 40,000 Albertans with some form of dementia with 17 per cent of diagnoses occurring in patients younger than 65. This means that we have the highest prevalence of early onset in Canada. Although there is no known cause or cure, the Alzheimer's Society helps to provide support to those impacted by the disease.
Visit www.scotiabankproam.com for more information.
