Most Australians would agree that 8.8 million children under five dying in poverty annually is a global tragedy. Most people would feel compassionate, not many would do something to try to change it. But one group of Essendon residents plan to do just that, by holding a ‘Survive Past Five’ 5^th Birthday party, and inviting the community to attend.

On 21st August at 138 Buckley Street Essendon a group of passionate campaigners will hold a 5^th birthday party style public demonstration, in the aim of drawing community and Government attention to the issue of child mortality.

Like any kids party, there will be cake, candles, balloons and games. But this party also has an important message. Party guests will celebrate the progress that is being made in the fight to reduce child deaths – 400 thousand more children survived last year than in 2008 – but they will also light candles on the birthday cake in memory of those who didn’t survive to see their fifth birthday. Participants will also be invited to sign ‘5^th Birthday cards’ addressed to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, as part of a petition asking the Federal Government for an increase in aid spending towards child and maternal health.

ALL ARE WELCOME!