May 23, 2016
This year's Red Nose Day, the annual fundraising campaign organized by public charity Comic Relief Inc. will take place May 26. The premise is simple: buy a red nose to raise money — and wear it at work to raise awareness — to support charities concerned with child poverty.
The event launched in the United States last year, but has been a success in the United Kingdom since it was initiated in 1988. More than $1 billion has been raised worldwide in the last 25 years for children living in poverty, according to the organization. The money raised in 2015 benefitted children in all 50 states and in 15 countries internationally.
Writer-director Richard Curtis, of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" and "Love Actually" fame, created the event. His idea that comedy, celebrities and mass media could help raise money and awareness for those poverty-stricken led to Red Nose Day.
On May 26, there will be a two-hour live TV special on NBC at 9 p.m. ET. Celebrities known for music, TV, film and comedy will appear during the fundraiser special.
Those watching at home are encouraged to purchase a red, clown nose from Walgreens, the exclusive retailer of Red Nose Day noses. The money benefits projects in needy communities in the United States and around the world. PhillyVoice staffers will participate this year by wearing red noses.
Supporters can also donate directly to Red Nose Day 2016 online.
