Mexican Kids Have a New Ally Patrick Ferguson - The News
go to original May 28, 2012

Javier “Chicharito” Hernández (The News)

MEXICO CITY – Javier “Chicharito” Hernández accepted UNICEF’s offer on Saturday to be goodwill ambassador, pledging to work to better conditions for children in Mexico.

“When I heard that UNICEF wished to invite me to become an ambassador, immediately I thought, if it’s about doing something for the children of my country, I’m in,” said Hernández, a soccer player who plays for Manchester United and is on Mexico’s national team.

“I didn’t think twice … I am very proud and committed (to this cause) because we have a lot to do to make sure that all children and adolescents’ rights in Mexico are respected.”

Hernández’ first act as a goodwill ambassador was to launch an awareness campaign called “Let’s Make a Comeback” in an effort to help children who live in poverty.

UNICEF reported in 2011 that about 26 percent of Mexico’s children live in poverty. These children often have to drop out of school at a young age to be able to support themselves and their families. Hernández stressed the need to create the conditions in which everyone can finish high school and have a promising future.

UNICEF is an international charity run under the United Nations and provides humanitarian assistance to children and mothers in developing countries.

Hernández is the first Mexican athlete and the third Mexican to be a UNICEF goodwill ambassador. Mexicans César Costa, an actor and singer, and Julieta Venegas, a singer, have also received the title.

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