Thousands of young people are giving up food to raise money for hungry families around the world.

They're participating in the 2009 World Vision 30 Hour Famine. It's a nationwide effort to raise $12.5 million to help feed those in need in nearly 100 countries around the world. A few of those countries include Peru, North Korea and Haiti.

Those taking part give up all food, other than liquids, for 30 hours as they learn about world hunger and poverty. They also perform service projects in their communities.

Many groups across Raleigh hosted fasting events this weekend.

With Love From Jesus organized a food, clothing and household goods donation.

Students supporting the Interfaith Food Shuttle filled grocery bags with food and delivered them to those in need.

Wake Relief also sent out food to help people in the community, while students with Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network helped paint and clean the building.

The next national famine dates are April 24-25, 2009.

Last year, 30 Hour Famine raised $12.2 million to help feed children around the world.