Justin Bieber is appealing to his fans to donate money to charity to mark his 17th birthday today.
The “Baby” singer is forgoing gifts from his devoted fanbase in a bid to raise cash for Charity: Water, a non-profit organisation bringing clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations.
In a post on his fundraising page, he writes, "I have had an incredible year and it is all due to the fans helping me live my dream. So this year, I really want my birthday to be all about helping others. Instead of asking for gifts, I’m asking friends, family and fans to consider donating $17 for my 17th birthday to help make a change.
“Did you know that about 4,500 kids die each day from waterborne disease? By building clean water projects for villages that need them, we can prevent this! 100% of all donations go directly to building clean water projects in developing countries with charity: water, and we’ll be able to see photos and GPS of the projects we helped build! I want to make my birthday matter this year – let’s make it so more kids can grow up to have a 17th birthday like me. Join me to make a change.
“I’m really so grateful for my family, friends and fans – and I believe we can do something big to help bring clean water to people in need. Even if you don’t have $17 to give I just ask you to go out in your community and try and make a positive difference. Even the smallest act of kindness can go a long way.”
Bieber set his fundraising target at $17,000 and as of right now has raised $29,080.
Happy birthday Justin.
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