HELP CHILD SOLDIERS

We’re supporting the problem if we’re doing nothing to stop it.

Following the success of Camp Okutta, War Child has launched a provocative new multi-media campaign: Help Child Soldiers. This is a call to action for all Canadians. It is meant to capture your attention, leaving you asking questions and seeking answers. The goal is to make Canadians aware of the violence, suffering and trauma that child soldiers - and all children who have been affected by war- face everyday, and to do something to solve the problem.

The campaign profiles fictitious Canadians who are rallying for child soldiers and supporting their cause. At first glance the message seems skewed; however the paradox is quickly made clear - everyday Canadians are made aware of the injustices facing the children and civilians victimized by war around the world - but all too often we turn a blind eye.

The pro bono campaign has been created by Toronto agency john st., the same team behind Camp Okutta.

War Child knows first hand the reality facing child soldiers. In regions where child soldiers are often placed on the front lines of combat, being used as human shields, messengers and spies, War Child provides programming aimed at preventing children being recruited in the first place, and assistance in the difficult process of reintegration once they leave the armed groups.

The campaign is being fueled by a grass roots push of posters that are being posted in cities and communities across the country, as well as video to drive people to the interactive website www.helpchildsoldiers.com. This site is a forum for all those involved in the campaign to get informed and get the facts and tools necessary to take action.

In the world today, more than 300 000 children are engaged in combat in over 18 countries worldwide. Let your voice be heard by signing the petition, downloading the posters, uploading the video and getting the word out. The time to act is now!