TeleMiracle 50 raises record $10.5 million for Kinsmen Foundation

SASKATOON — TeleMiracle marked its 50th anniversary with a record-breaking total of $10,521,072 as the annual 22-hour telethon concluded at 5 p.m.

The funds support the Kinsmen Foundation, which provides Saskatchewan residents with assistance for medical travel as well as mobility and special needs equipment.

Chloe Tews Photography

“Thank you for putting your trust in Saskatchewan’s show, TeleMiracle. Without your support, we could not have had the record-breaking year we did,” said TeleMiracle 50 chair Tammy Blackwell. “TeleMiracle creates a legacy of Saskatchewan’s generosity and volunteerism, and we would love to see it live on for years to come.”

A historic bequest of $2.35 million from Alice Tindall was among the major contributions that helped push the telethon to its record total.

The show featured 70 performers from across Saskatchewan as part of the Saskatchewan Talent segment, along with video highlights celebrating five decades of TeleMiracle and appearances by several past TeleMiracle chairs.

Audience favourites included performances of Country Roads and Bring Back the Mullet by the telethon’s cast, while a special video near the end of the broadcast thanked District 3 Kin members who founded the Kinsmen Foundation and TeleMiracle, along with the volunteers who help organize the event each year.

“Thank you, Saskatchewan. The support you have shown us is incredible,” said Kinsmen Foundation executive director Danika Dinko. “Your support will directly improve the quality of life for so many Saskatchewan residents.”

With this year’s total, TeleMiracle has now raised more than $181 million over its 50-year history, supporting thousands of Saskatchewan families. All funds raised remain in the province.

Donors who made phone pledges during the telethon can fulfil them by mailing donations to TeleMiracle, Box 83000, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 9S1.

TeleMiracle 51 is scheduled to return next year as the Kinsmen Foundation continues its mission of helping Saskatchewan residents improve their quality of life and independence.