Nicole Richie and Joel Madden back Burma cyclone fund

Nicole Richie and Joel Madden have joined forces with a host of other celebrities to back Unicef's campaign to raise funds for those affected by the cyclone in Burma.

The famous couple -- who welcomed their first child, Harlow, in January -- have issued a plea to support the organization's emergency appeal for the eight million children affected by last week's disaster.

Nicole said: "We want to talk to you about Burma, a country that has just been devastated by the biggest disaster since the tsunami."

She added: "Because Unicef has been on the ground in Burma for 60 years, they are able to deliver emergency supplies right now."

Joel added: "Tens of thousands are dead and the number is rising. Eight million children's lives hang in the balance. These kids need food, water, medicine, shelter and protection.

"Please help Unicef do whatever it takes to save children's lives."

Ben Stiller and Bad Boys actress Tea Leoni are also lending their support to Unicef's appeal for $8.2 million.

Ben said: "A killer cyclone has struck and eight million children need medicine, food, clean water and shelter. These kids need our help now. Unicef is there, delivering emergency supplies and racing to save children's lives and protect them from the chaos and destruction left by the storm.

"Please, let's all stop what we're doing and help. Thank you."