Variety – The Children’s Charity telethon raised $6.7 million for children who have special needs this past weekend. (Photo supplied)
British Columbians, including many here in Osoyoos, tuned in to Global BC and Shaw TV this past weekend to show their hearts for children who have special needs, helping Variety – The Children’s Charity and helped raise an impressive $6,671,138 at the 48th annual Show of Hearts Telethon.
“We can’t thank the people of B.C. enough,” says Bernice Scholten, Variety’s Executive Director. “Families with children who have special needs face enormous challenges every day. But the people who donated have let them know they’re not alone. It’s all about families helping families and we want our donors to know their support does make a difference.”
The show has aired on Global BC for 48 years, from its beginnings at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre to its recent incarnation at the Hard Rock Casino (formerly the Red Robinson Theatre) in Coquitlam.
Making his annual appearance, to the delight of kids young and young-at-heart, was the much loved Bob McGrath of Sesame Street fame. Also appearing during the 22.5-hour broadcast were members of the Global BC news teams including Chris Gailus, Sophie Lui, Jill Krop, Deb Hope, Steve Darling, Squire Barnes and others.
Every year Variety raises funds and distributes grants throughout British Columbia to inspire hope, enrich lives and build a better future for children who have special needs.
Since 1965, Variety has raised over $170 million to provide life-saving, life-changing and life-enriching support. In 2013, Variety helped 1,277 families and 32 organizations across the province with funding for equipment, therapies, programs and emergency transportation to out-of-community hospitals for specialized treatment and support.
The success of the Telethon is thanks to the many volunteers who tirelessly give of their time and talent leading up to and during the weekend event. In addition, the support of Variety’s partners, Global BC, Shaw TV, TELUS and White Spot helped make Variety’s 48th Show of Hearts Telethon possible.
For more information about Variety or to donate to the cause, call 604.320.0505 or visit variety.bc.ca.
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