Angie Harmon named UNICEF ambassador

NEW YORK, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. Fund for UNICEF says actress Angie Harmon has been appointed its newest UNICEF ambassador.

Harmon will use her talent and recognition to raise funds for, educate and advocate on behalf of the world's most vulnerable children, the organization said. Her first assignment will be to appear in public-service announcements to raise awareness about the issue of child trafficking.

"After learning the horrifying practice of child trafficking both in the United States and abroad, I knew I had to do something about it. That's what drew me to UNICEF," Harmon said in a statement Wednesday. "I believe that zero children should be forced into prostitution or made to work, especially at dangerous jobs. I look forward to working with UNICEF to help reach a day when every child has a safe and healthy childhood."

"UNICEF ambassadors have a wide range of backgrounds and accomplishments, but they all share a deep commitment to saving and improving the lives of children across the globe," said Caryl Stern, president and chief executive officer of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. "We're thrilled to have Angie Harmon join our efforts to help ensure the health, education, equality and protection of every child."