GE foundation and UNICEF to support Early Childhood Development programs in China and Mexico$1.2 Million Grant is Largest Corporate Gift Ever for UNICEF’s Early Childhood Development Programs NEW YORK (June 24, 2004) – Recognizing the value and impact of investing in pre-school aged children, the GE Foundation has awarded a $1.27 million grant over two years to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF to support early childhood development (ECD) programs in China and Mexico. The donation, which represents the largest corporate gift given to the U.S. Fund specifically targeted toward vital ECD activities, will support programs that prepare children to reach school age healthy and well-nourished, intellectually curious, socially confident and equipped with a solid foundation for lifelong learning. The program’s long-term goals in both China and Mexico aim to improve the learning abilities of students, increase school attendance, improve nutritional services and educate caretakers, parents and the community on practices that enhance early childhood development. "The GE Foundation’s support of UNICEF’s early childhood development programs in China and Mexico focuses on mobilizing both attention and resources on the needs of thousands of pre-school aged children – especially those under the age of three. Good nutrition, health care, clean water and sanitation, and a nurturing environment during these early years can last a lifetime,” said Carol Bellamy, Executive Director, UNICEF. "Thanks to organizations such as the GE Foundation, we can continue to help many children get the best start possible in life.” “This program will address the critical needs underprivileged children face in China and Mexico during their early years,” said Bob Corcoran, President of the GE Foundation. “School readiness plus quality health and nutritional services will provide these children with the development opportunities necessary to reach the long-term goals of a brighter future.” Of the approximately 69 million children in China under the age of five, only 1 in 6 attends pre-school. Less than 5 percent of children under the age of 3 have access to early childhood development educational opportunities. In addition, less than 80 percent of all children have been immunized against diseases, while nutritional deficiencies have resulted in 11 percent of children under 5 becoming moderately or severely underweight. Addressing these issues, UNICEF will work to improve the quality and access to services, strengthen caregiver practices, increase the percentage of 6-year olds entering primary school, and increase the number of inter-agency networks to meet the needs of young children. * * * About UNICEF About the GE Foundation For additional information, please contact:
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