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Idol Gives Back $45 Million!

This year’s episode of Idol Gives Back raised nearly $45 million to benefit various charities including the Feeding America, Children’s Health Fund, United Nations Foundation, Malaria No More and Save the Children’s U.S. Programs.

Performances made on the American Idol stage were given by Carrie Underwood, Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys and Sir Elton John.

The annual fund-raising event has raised more than $140 million since its inception in 2007. Last year, Idol Gives Back raised $60 million.

Jennifer Garner reads There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Shell to a little girl at LBJ Elementary in Jackson, Kentucky.

The 38-year-old actress took part in Save The Children’s Early Steps to School Success program, which helps kids get ready for school by making sure they have strong reading skills.

Jen’s visit to Breathitt, Kentucky – near her hometown – was televised as part of American Idol’s “Idol Gives Back” special yesterday (April 22).

“Four-year-olds who grow up in poverty are 18 months behind children who grow up in even lower-middle-class communities,” Jen said. “It’s not fair.”

Gabrielle Union is all smiles as she attends an evening of cocktails and private shopping at the Ralph Lauren Atlanta store on Wednesday (April 21) in Atlanta, Georgia.

The 37-year-old actress (pictured here with actress Jasmine Burke) shopped to benefit The Ludacris Foundation, a nonprofit that serves to inspire youth and encourage healthy lifestyles.

Founder Chris “Ludacris” Bridges also attended the event!

Source:

- http://justjared.buzznet.com/2010/04/23/idol-gives-back-45-million

- http://justjared.buzznet.com/2010/04/23/jennifer-garner-reads-to-kentucky-kids-for-idol-gives-back

- http://justjared.buzznet.com/2010/04/23/gabrielle-union-is-ludacris-foundation-fabulous

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