I attended the Millenium Promise Conference yesterday. Speakers such as youth philanthropy titans Craig and Mark Kielburger, famed economist Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, former US president Bill Clinton and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Mia Farrow delivered inspiring and motivational presentations concerning children of the world and poverty.

Launched during this glorious event is the Spread the Net Campaign, co-chaired by Canada's own Belinda Stronach and Rick Mercer in partnership with Dr. Jeffrey Sachs and UNICEF Canada.

"Malaria is a disease caused by a parasite that is transmitted by mosquitoes. In Africa, it’s the largest single cause of death of children under 5 years of age. Pregnant women are also especially vulnerable."



"Without concerted actions, the death rate is expected to double in the next 20 years."



"A bednet provides a physical barrier to mosquitoes. It reduces the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes. A bednet is a simple way to prevent malaria infection. Bednets are coated with insecticide so they not only keep out mosquitoes, but they are killed on contact. Insecticide-treated mosquito bednets have proven to cut the death rate of malaria up to 50%."



"The goal: to cover Africa in blue bednets and stop death by malaria. It raises funds so that Unicef can procure and distribute bednets at no costs to the families receiving them. Every $10 collected will purchase a bednet for a child in Africa.

It's about all of us saving all those children in Africa. It’s a simple, effective, inexpensive way to make a BIG difference. It’s about life and death. It’s war on malaria. 10 bucks can buy you a couple of cappuccinos or a bednet to protect an african child for up to 5 years. It’s something you can do right now.

1 net. 10 bucks. Save lives."

Therefore, spread the word and Spread the Net, friends, save lives.