Kiwi celebrities take a stand against poverty
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Four celebrity teams have chosen to take a stand against poverty by signing on for this year's World Vision 40 Hour Famine. The teams will compete to raise the most money for Bangladesh which has one of the highest rates of malnutrition in the world.

2.7 million Kiwis have participated in the 40 Hour Famine over the past four decades, raising more than $74 million for vulnerable children in over 40 countries.

2015 sees two new teams join the fight against poverty; Team Red is made up of YouTube sensation Jamie Curry and New Zealand actress, writer and blogger Kimberly Crossman. Team Blue is fronted by popular Shortland Street actresses Grace Palmer and Lucy Elliott.

Los Angeles based Crossman is excited to be involved in New Zealand’s largest youth event.

“I am really looking forward to being part of the movement that is going to make positive change for those in Bangladesh. This is a great cause and I know we can all make a difference.”

Team Yellow returns with The Edge’s Marty Hehewerth and Steph Monks, as does Team Green, with Eve Palmer and Michael Lee from The 4.30 Show, who welcome new cast member Adam Percival.

In 2014, Adam was the highest individual 40 Hour Famine fundraiser, spending 40 hours in a portaloo to raise funds for children in Malawi.

“We’re all equal and everybody deserves the best life possible, and if that means as Kiwis we need to give a helping hand, then I say why not?"

Rivalry between the celebrities is sure to heat up this year with sisters Eve and Grace Palmer on different teams. However, both say their primary goal is to ensure Kiwi kids raise as much money as possible for Bangladesh.

“If we all join together, we can be the change needed. Kiwis can play a huge part in improving the health of the most vulnerable,” says Grace.

This years’ 40 Hour Famine will begin at 8pm on Friday 22nd of May and end at midday Sunday 24th of May.

The funds raised through this year’s 40 Hour Famine will go towards establishing emergency feeding programmes, teaching families how to grow their own veggies and improving access to health and nutrition services.

Team Yellow: The Edge Smash! 20 hosts Marty Hehewerth and Steph Monks
Team Blue: Shorty Streeters Grace Palmer and Lucy Elliott.
Team Red: Screen queens Jamie Curry and Kimberly Crossman
Team Green: The 4.30 Show’s Eve Palmer, Adam Percival and Michael Lee

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