FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 15 JUNE 2006

All Blacks Ask Fans to Give Generously in Lead Up to Eden Park Test…

The All Blacks are encouraging rugby fans to give generously to Save the Children whilst their test matches are underway, giving fans a chance to help some of the 100 million children worldwide that are unable to go to school to get an education.

Save the Children New Zealand is the official charity of the All Blacks. The two organisations are working together this year to raise funds for education projects around the world.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry says giving children access to quality education helps build a positive future for them and their communities.

“A small donation from any of us, can make a huge difference for children in countries where poverty is part of daily life,” said Mr Henry.

Save the Children Executive Director John Bowis gave the example that just $7.50 will train a preschool teacher in Sri Lanka. Those teachers will go on to help hundreds of children to get an education.

Mr Bowis says education unlocks children’s potential and it is great to see the Auckland Rugby Football Union being so supportive.

"We are committed to ensuring disadvantaged children have the opportunity to go to school. By denying children their right to education we deprive them of the chance to lay the groundwork for a happy, healthy and successful life and that is a tragedy," Mr Bowis said.

Save the Children New Zealand is the leading independent aid agency in New Zealand focused upon creating lasting improvements to the lives of disadvantaged children in need around the world.

Donations to Save the Children can be made by calling our freephone number: 0800 167 168 or visiting www.savethechildren.org.nz.

ENDS

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