Malaria video in Times Square

United Methodist Communications
Office of Public Information
www.umcpresscenter.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 28,2011

Nashville, Tenn.:Right now, in the heart of New York City, a message of need is being broadcast to more than 1.5 million people who pass through Times Square every day.

Imagine No Malaria, a ministry of The United Methodist Church, is airing a video message to underscore the urgent need to fight a disease that claims nearly a million lives each year.

"The video links malaria's tragic toll with our ability to make an impact by using a mobile device to make a donation," Rev. Larry Hollon, general secretary ofUnited Methodist Communications said. "It's truly an amazing opportunity to save a life with something as simple as a text message."

The 15-second video, which will be broadcast hourly through July 5, 2011, informs viewers that although malaria kills a child in Africa every 45 seconds, it only takes 45 seconds to make a life-saving donation via text message. A $10 donation can be given by sending a text message with the word "MALARIA" to 27722. Standard messaging and data rates may apply.

"We are thrilled to share a message in Times Square that raises awareness about malaria," Rev. Hollon concluded. "What better place to raise awareness and money to save lives than the busiest intersection in the world?"


About Imagine No Malaria
Imagine No Malaria is an extraordinary ministry of the people of The United Methodist Church to eliminate death and suffering from malaria in Africa by 2015. With a goal of raising $75 million to improve health infrastructure and empower a sustainable victory over the disease, Imagine No Malaria is our opportunity to rethink how we reach beyond our church, opening doors to those who need it most. For more information, please visit us online at www.ImagineNoMalaria.org.

Media contact:
Diane Degnan
[email protected]
615-742-5406 (w)
615-483-1765 (c)