'Idol Gives Back' raises $45 million

"American Idol's" charity effort "Idol Gives Back" has raised close to $45 million since the special aired on FOX Wednesday night.

The money will go to several U.S. and international charities, including Save the Children, Feeding America, Malaria No More, the Children's Health Fund and the United Nations Foundation, all of which were spotlighted during Wednesday's (April 21) two-hour-plus show.

"Once again, I am over overwhelmed by the generosity of the 'American Idol' viewers, our sponsors and our special benefactors," "Idol" creator Simon Fuller says. "I am so thankful to all of the celebrity guests and performers who appeared Wednesday night to support 'Idol Gives Back.'"

The $45 million raised this year will be added to the more than $140 million the Idol Gives Back Foundation has raised since the its inception in 2007.

You can still contribute to the foundation by calling (877) IDOL-AID (436-5243) or donating online at IdolAid.com.

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Photo credit: FOX