Local Teens “Love Hungry” To Save Lives

Wars and natural disasters dominate the world’s daily headlines, but behind the scenes and far from the spotlight, hunger and preventable diseases claim the lives of 24,000 of the world’s children every day.

Twelve teens from St. Luke’s Greek Orthodox Church, 400 Prospect Street, will be joining the efforts of hundreds of thousands of young people all over the nation who will set aside the usual “stuff” that fills their daily lives. Instead, they will do World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine because they “LOVE HUNGRY” – the theme for this year. By going without food, they get a taste of what the world’s poorest children and families face every day.

Prior to the event weekend, students raised funds with the knowledge that every $30 they raised could help feed and care for a child for a month. Groups are also encouraged to perform hands-on service projects during the weekend in order to make a difference in their own communities.

St Luke’s teens hosted a Free Car Wash (donations accepted) in the First Church parking lot in the East Longmeadow rotary. This is an excellent example of Stewardship in action.” Joseph Dasco, coordinator of the local event says, “Our kids have raised more than $10,000 over the past three years by participating in the 30 Hour Famine. This program has enabled our kids to be more aware of the needs of children around the world. It is a positive contribution that our young people can make for the greater good.”

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. This year, World Vision is concentrating a huge effort in earthquake and tsunami stricken Japan. World Vision responded within 48 hours and are supplying relief and child services.