20th Commonwealth Games to Raise Funds for Children in Need

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) has joined forces with the UN Children's Fund UNICEF to raise money that will help change the lives of millions of children.

UNICEF says all the funds collected through the Opening Ceremony of the Games will help protect children from poverty, disease, exploitation and provide life-saving food and vaccines.
The funds will also give children the chance to take part in sport- many of them for the first time.

Cricket icon and Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF Sachin Tendulkar said he was proud to support the agency's global appeal for children.

Spectators, athletes and an expected one billion viewers from across the Commonwealth are invited to "Put Children First" by making a donation via a text number or web link.

At least 6,500 athletes from 71 countries and territories united by language, history, culture and shared values will compete in Gasglow, Scotland over 11 days.

The 53 Commonwealth Member States are very diverse with regards to their size and economic stature. They span from Africa, Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Pacific.

The Commonwealth Games or "Friendly Games" are held every four years.

SOURCE: Jocelyne Sambira, UNRadio.