By KRISTEN ROCHA Contributing Writer gamail@dailypennsylvanian.com Has the giant mosquito on Locust Walk been bugging you this week? Don't be alarmed - this costumed insect isn't here to bite, but rather to promote the saving of lives in Africa through the malaria-fighting program Nothing But Nets. Today at 4:30 p.m. in Steinhardt Hall, Nothing But Nets is giving a presentation on malaria and how individuals can make an impact on this disease. The organization believes the workshop is a great opportunity to save lives, connect with global health experts and develop the skills to effect change. The event is free, but an RSVP is requested. Nothing But Nets was founded in 2006 by the United Nations Foundation and has partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Its main purpose is to save lives by stopping malaria, while also preventing the undermining of medical care, housing and food efforts put forth by other nonprofit organizations. The grassroots movement is working with Penn campus groups such as Penn Bioethics Society, Student Ambassadors of the World, Civic House Associates Coalition, Penn for UNICEF and Penn Hillel. Those who cannot make it to the workshop can still contribute. The giant mosquito will be on Locust Walk asking students to send free "Letters of Hope" to African refugee camps. The cards will be sent to Africans to let them know that they are being supported. In return for writing a letter, students will receive a free sweatband. Also, donations can be made on the organization's Web site, nothingbutnets.net. A $10 donation provides a mosquito net coated with insecticide that instantly kills mosquitos, preventing the transfer of malaria. Nothing But Nets is now reaching out to the younger generation by visiting college campuses. Dave Brown, a promotional representative for Nothing But Nets, wants college students to know that "a small donation of $10 ships a net and saves a life." Marianna Popp, the marketing representative for the company said, "It's just a simple, easy way for students to get involved." Nothing But Nets is a way to help save millions of lives in Africa and connect with health experts across the world. It's a win-win situation for both students and the people of Africa, according to Brown and Popp. To become involved with this organization on Penn's campus, contact College senior Markley Foreman, president of the Penn Bioethics Society.
Saving lives -- one net at a time
