Innovative fundraising app to raise $100,000 for Malawi
Anybody can make a wish, we do it every year when we blow out candles on our birthday, or we find a wishbone or see a
shooting star. Now World Vision is asking Facebook uses to send a wish to Malawi.
With the help of World Vision sponsor Wheedle, the Facebook application means uses can ‘flick” a virtual dollar into the
fountain. It’s free for the wish maker but Wheedle matches every virtual dollar with a real one, up to the value of
$100,000.
Wheedle Marketing Manager Henry Dunne says the decision to partner with the 40 Hour Famine was an easy one. “It’s almost
a rite of passage in New Zealand and we feel very lucky to be involved in the 40th year of an event that’s become so
iconic.”
Dunne says he hopes the App will encourage all kiwis to spare a thought for Malawi and make one simple click.
“It’s never been easier to donate online and with this new Facebook App, not only is it quick, it’s free – you click and
Wheedle pays.”
In the past four decades more than 2.5 million Kiwis have participated in the 40 Hour Famine. Through their generosity,
$72 million has been raised for World Vision’s emergency and sustainable development work around the world.
“We are extraordinarily appreciative to the millions of Kiwis who’ve helped us improve and save lives over the past 40
years. For a little country, we have managed to make a huge difference in the fight against poverty,” says World Vision
CEO Chris Clarke.
The money raised this year will go to Malawi in south-east Africa which is in the midst of a severe food crisis brought
on by extreme weather conditions. Further, one in eight children don’t make it to their 5th birthday.
The funds will be used to address issues of food insecurity and nutrition, as well as long-term sustainable agriculture
projects and community health initiatives.
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