Canadians #SeeHunger on Falls & Walls

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - April 25, 2014) -

Note to editors: An image is included with this press release on Marketwire's website.

A roaring river and some magic ink created a buzz on social media tonight following two clever publicity stunts.

Thousands of Canadian youth participated in a live interactive digital graffiti event by writing their own famine messages right on a brick facade on Toronto's Yonge Street near Ryerson University. (See video)

In Niagara Falls, Stacy Grimshire, a student at Robert Bateman High in Burlington flipped the light switch at the falls turning the natural wonder to a hue of orange, the signature colour of the 30 Hour Famine, one of Canada's largest youth movements. (See attached video)

Today and tomorrow, more than 5,000 Canadian youth coast to coast are collectively fasting from food or personal items like technology or other vices for 30 hours, and raising money for World Vision's food security programs in developing countries.

Students shared selfies on Instagram and on twitter using #SeeHunger which was trending in the GTA about an hour after the events started. (Removable if this doesn't happen)

Quotes:

"Please remember that it all started with an 'idea' from a 17 year old over 40 years ago, and evolved into a worldwide fundraiser. Any one can take an idea to make a difference in this world."

- Ruth Roberts, founder of 30 Hour Famine

"On this night where thousands of students from coast to coast are giving up food, furniture, technology or something else they care about, for 30 hours, I am humbled. Students have unified to take a stand. To say that 1 in 8 people worldwide going hungry every day, is not ok. They inspire me, and give me hope that a better world is possible. Youth are not the future, they are the now!"

- Cindy Mielke, 30-Hour Famine Manager

Quick Facts:

• 1 in 8 people around the world go hungry on a regular basis
• 1 in 5 people survive on less than $1.25 a day
• World Vision works with communities, farmers and parents to address issues of food insecurity and develop long-term sustainable strategies

Social Media:

#seehunger

https://www.facebook.com/#!/30HRFamine

@30HRFamine

Instagram: 30hrfamine

What Canada can do?

Do 30 Hour Famine or support the youth in your life who is. Spread awareness using #SeeHunger

30 Hour Famine began in Calgary in 1971 and has since grown to a worldwide event, being practiced in 21 countries and raising half a billion dollars.

To view the image accompanying this press release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20140425-WorldVision_800.jpg.