Did you know 26,500 children will die today?

• Almost 80 million children have died in the past 10 years
• Over 10 million children die every year
• Over 800,000 children die every month
• Over 185,500 children die every week
• Over 26,500 children die every day
• Over 18 children die every minute
• 1 child will die every 3 seconds

How many children lay dying as you read these statistics? Preventable disease, war, hunger, poverty and related conditions are silently killing the world’s children. Please remember these children as you prepare to celebrate this holiday season.

Mr Em and I decided several years ago that we would make donations to Room to Read, The UNHCR, UNICEF and the local food bank in the names of our nieces and nephews in lieu of Christmas presents. We simply send them a nice card with a note attached telling each child about the children or organization they will be helping this year. I promise you this has been infintely more rewarding than endless shopping for gifts for children who frankly have more than they could ever need or use. Regardless of whether you give monetarily or give the gift of time, we encourage you to make a donation to a charity of your choice. This is best prescription I know for beating the “Holiday Blues". Wishing you all peace and happiness this year. Bless the Children!