UNICEF fundraising partnership with British Airways marks 10th anniversary

Children from Nigeria to Mexico and more than 50 other countries have been aided by the $30 million raised by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Change for Good programme, which collects the loose change of passengers flying on British Airways and marked its tenth anniversary today.

As part of the festivities, Queen Elizabeth II unveiled a Boeing 747 aircraft at London's Heathrow Airport dedicated to the fundraising programme and met staff members from British Airways and UNICEF who have been instrumental in making the partnership successful.

When the red curtains did not immediately open, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Sir Roger Moore gave them a quick tug. The curtains opened when the Queen again pressed the controlling button.

"I wasn't meant to be up there but James Bond has got to do something!" Sir Roger, who is perhaps best known for his role as Agent 007, said afterwards.

The money has directly benefited UNICEF's work to improve the lives of children in over 50 developing countries, including rebuilding a dilapidated primary school for 3,000 children in Nigeria.

Some $1.5 million went to UNICEF's work in Mexico City, including a donation to protect street children in the city.

Other Change for Good funds supported UNICEF's emergency work in India, El Salvador, Kosovo, Iraq and Iran.

In 2004 Change for Good will pay for an HIV education project for children in India.