REGINA – TeleMiracle – Saskatchewan’s Charity – wrapped up its 46th edition on Sunday in Regina with a record-breaking total.
As of 5 p.m. on March 6, the final numbers on the video tote board showed a total of $8,002,722 raised. With this year’s incredible generosity added, the total raised by Telemiracle since 1977 is now over $153 million.
“Saskatchewan people are known for their generosity and this year, they came together to set an all-time TeleMiracle record,” said TeleMiracle 46 Chair Steve Kirwan. “The impact of these donations will be felt across the province and to everyone who gave this year, I can’t thank you enough.”
TeleMiracle 46 contained both traditional elements of past shows and some of the new features that were added during the pandemic last year, including pre-recorded performances and the video wall.
This year’s final tote board total included the proceeds of TeleMiracle’s online 50/50 raffle, which generated a final jackpot total of $385,730. The amount raised is an all-time high, surpassing the previous highest total of $7,151,254, raised at TeleMiracle 42 in 2018. This year’s high mark included the largest single donation in TeleMiracle’s history, a bequest of close to $1.8 million.
“No matter the size of the donation, every dollar that was given helped us reach this amazing total,” said Kirwan. “The best part is that all the money raised stays right here in Saskatchewan, to help their friends, neighbours and communities.”
One of the many highlights of this year’s show were the dozens of talented Saskatchewan performers who appeared throughout the telethon and on the “Countdown to Telemiracle” live stream pre-show. Not only did these acts showcase the scope of talent from every corner of the province, they also raised money for the telethon – which was once again matched by Nutrien, who presented their donation of $100,000 just before the end of the broadcast.
All TeleMiracle proceeds stay in Saskatchewan and are granted through the Kinsmen Foundation for specialized medical and mobility equipment, and assistance with medical travel. The Foundation typically receives over 1,000 applications for assistance from Saskatchewan residents each year.
TeleMiracle reminds those that made pledges during the telethon to honour them by mailing their donation to Box 83000, Saskatoon SK, S7K 9S1.
Planning begins shortly for Telemiracle 47, to take place in 2023 in Saskatoon. Details leading up to next year’s show will be posted at www.telemiracle.com.
