Telemiracle Helps Those with Special Needs
Annual Telethon Assists People with Mental and Physical Challenges
Mar 4, 2009
The annual Kinsmen Telemiracle telethon is once again set to take place March 7 and 8, 2009 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. The event is held every year in early March and funds local and regional organizations that help people with disabilities including physical and mental challenges.
This year, 2009, will mark 33 years since Telemiracle was first broadcast.
What is Telemiracle
Telemiracle was started by the Kinsmen Foundation of Saskatchewan to raise funds for children and adults living with special needs. The first province-wide telethon was held in 1976 and was broadcast across six Saskatchewan television stations.
The event itself features 20 non-stop hours of televised entertainment and performances by some of Canada's best known musicians and entertainers. Pledges are collected throughout the broadcast by teams of volunteers in Saskatchewan's two largest cities, Saskatoon and Regina.
Hundreds of groups from across Saskatchewan also collect pledges before the event through fundraisers such as bake sales, car washes and other community activities.
Local network television and radio employees volunteer their time to put the show on each year. Telemiracle organizers say it takes more than 1,200 volunteers to run the show's entire 20-hour broadcast.
Well-Known Entertainers Participate in Telemiracle
A host of talented artists from across the province and Canada come to Saskatchewan to participate in Telemiracle each year. The show has long been hosted by Bob McGrath, of Sesame Street fame. McGrath's enthusiasm and consistent chants asking viewers to "ring those phones," and make a donation contributes to the continued success of the program.
Other performers set to take the stage at Telemiracle 2009 include Doc Walker, The Higgins, Beverley Mahood, Brad Johner and Jim Witter. Performers of all ages from across Saskatchewan also raise money and participate in the show performing skits, dance routines or singing.
Hundreds of Saskatchewan residents also come out each year to watch Telemiracle's live broadcast.
Funds Raised at Telemiracle Stay in Saskatchewan
All money raised during the telethon is used to help Saskatchewan residents living with a disability. Applications for funding are reviewed several times a year and can be used to buy a variety of equipment including portable lifts and ramps, specialized wheelchairs or electric scooters.
Individuals and families can also get help covering costs such as meals and transportation in instances where they must travel to receive medical care. The Kinsmen Foundation also supports health facilities across the province through the purchase of specialized medical equipment.
The event has raised $78 million since its inception in 1976, according to the Kinsmen Foundation. More than $3.6 million was raised in 2008 alone.
Telethon a Long Tradition in Saskatchewan
All funds handed out through the Kinsmen Telemiracle Foundation help improve the quality of life of Saskatchewan residents and their families living with disabilities. And after 33 years, the cause is one everyone in Saskatchewan continues to support.
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