The 13th annual Variety – The Children’s Charity Radiothon ended on a high note, despite not being able to match last year’s total.
For 2017, Prince George raised $61,113 for children in needs of care, plus 331 Buddy Bears for families.
Radiothon Producer Gene Bridges admits he and his volunteer crew were a little concerned in the mid-afternoon on Thursday.
“We just weren’t getting the normal response, but people were responding in a huge way. So we’re so grateful; I know some people were a little uncomfortable giving a little bit more than they felt like they ought to, but that means they love children here in the North that have special needs.”
Day One’s total saw $26,496 and 115 Buddy Bears collected, which means Day Two numbers were more than doubled.
$61,113 and 331 Buddy Bears donated to Variety – The Children’s Charity of BC all because of your generosity!!
Thank you Prince George!!— 94.3 the GOAT (@943theGOAT) June 23, 2017
Prince George we raised $61,113 for @VarietyBC in TWO DAYS!! Plus 331 Buddy Bears for local kids! Thank you from all of us at @Country97fm pic.twitter.com/DKfCLHlNJx
— COUNTRY 97FM (@Country97fm) June 23, 2017
According to Bridges, 2016’s total just more than $67,000, but reminds the public the fundraiser always starts with nothing at all.
He adds phone lines have always been the big factor in getting donations, but was surprised at the number of online givers.
“Online donations are important too because a lot of people are just going in that direction these days. Most of these volunteers who come and volunteer their time also write a cheque or break out the credit card too. They’re just loving, giving people.”
Bridges thanks the community and region of Northern BC for their support over the two-day fundraiser.
Over the past decade, Variety BC has raised more than $610,000 and handed out 322 grants to local families and children, as well as funding for Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation, Northern BC Children & Families Hearing Society, Prince George and District Child Development Centre, University Hospital of Northern BC, and the Prince George Therapeutic Riding Association.
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