UNICEF (The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) was created in 1946 to help children in the war-torn countries. In 1953 the mandate was extended to address needs of children in the developing world and it was renamed “The United Nations Children’s Fund.”  The mission of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF is” to promote the survival, protection, and development of all children worldwide through fundraising, advocacy and education.”  Currently UNICEF works in over 160 countries and territories providing health care, clean water, improved nutrition and education.  In 2001 UNICEF raised $1.225 billion of which 93% went into programs and 7% was for administration.  Of the program funds 36% went into early childhood development, 24% supported immunizations, 15% was for girls’ education, 14% for protection of children in countries with armed conflicts and 7% supported programs for children and families affected by HIV/AIDS.

Our church supports UNICEF by participating in the “Trick or Treat for UNICEF.”  Our church children are given baskets as shown above and they collect money for UNICEF while collecting trick or treats for themselves.  This year our children raised $75.00 for UNICEF.  More information on this program in our church can be obtained from Jo Holt.