Cycle 5 HistoryUNICEFMaking the world a safer place for childrenChildren are impacted by extreme poverty. This is a statistical fact, not hyperbole. It has been shown that recently, World Bank poverty data showed that approximately half of all people living on less than $1.25 a day are eighteen years old or younger. Furthermore, nearly four hundred million children worldwide under the age of thirteen lived in extreme poverty. This number of children in extreme poverty is greater than the population of the entire United States. This is where UNICEF comes in, a force that strongly motivates the world to realize the rights of every child. The agency, UNICEF, stands for United Nations Children's Fund. UNICEF has the global authority to influence young decision-makers and to help improve the health of children and mothers around the world. They are unique among other organizations worldwide and among those working with adolescents. The foundation of human progress is the care and education of children, regardless of race or ethnicity. Working with others to help children overcome the obstacles that lie in their path – violence, poverty, discrimination and disease – was the reason UNICEF was created. They make millions of people understand that we can advance humanity if we work together. They also encourage girls to complete at least primary education, as girls who grow up with a good education are better citizens, parents and thinkers. They do their best to immunize all children from common diseases, such as HIV/AIDS. HIV is a virus that damages children's immune systems, leaving them helpless and unable to defend themselves if they are diagnosed with cancer. They try to stop discrimination, especially... middle of paper... help UNICEF improve children's lives. So far, approximately ninety-four million people have said "Yes for children." Another UNICEF milestone was the Special Session on Children. In 2002, this was the first type of session that included children as official delegates and was dedicated exclusively to children. This conference took place to discuss the progress achieved since the World Summit for Children. UNICEF has helped millions and millions of children survive in a sometimes harsh and cruel world. They have provided billions of items of clothing and additional meals. This agency was able to provide emergency aid to hundreds of thousands of people. They have been in business for years and have achieved so much. It is strongly encouraged that all join them in the pursuit of a cleaner and safer world for children and mothers of all nations.