RAIN 4 AFRICA: A Lifeline to Africa Run

On July 20 of this year, the United Nations officially declared the crisis in the Horn of Africa as a famine. Tens of thousands have died, in fact more than 29,000 children under the age of 5 have died in the months of June to August. This famine was caused by excessive drought, back-to-back failed crop seasons, the 20-year civil war in Somalia and rising food and fuel prices worldwide.

More than 12 million people are affected in three countries and are in need of aid. It is hard to wrap our minds around that figure; the idea of 12 million hungry people is almost too large to comprehend. With the amount of bad news we get on a daily basis, it may just be too easy to turn a blind eye, especially because of the sheer numbers involved. Some people may prefer not to face this horrific reality. But face it we must. We must choose to do just the opposite—we must choose to get shocked and horrified at these unthinkable statistics. They must keep us awake at night. They have got to bring out the best in humanity and spur us on to action.

Refugees at Dolo Ado Camp in Ethiopia

Someone once said “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful and committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” That’s exactly what Lifeline Foundation is doing, we are responding to the call for global aid. We’re people who are just like you—students, businesspeople, doctors, nurses, dentists, teachers, musicians, engineers, counselors, graphic artists and writers who are all friends living in the city of Manila.

One of the things we live by is “Third world helping third world;” as we believe that the Philippines should not only be on the receiving end of aid.

On November 13, 2011 Lifeline Foundation is holding Rain4Africa, A Lifeline to Africa Run in Westgate Filinvest Alabang. 100% of the proceeds from this run will go directly to the World Food Program. Race categories are 3k, 5k and 10 k, and registration is Php400 for all categories, inclusive of timing chip and race bib. No loot bags, just care. No singlets, but we do ask all participants to wear bright colors in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Africa.

We can raise what is needed to save lives, to save the future. Join us on November 13! Call 8362514 or visit www.alifelinetoafrica.org for more details about Rain4Africa.

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