IWK TELETHON FOR CHILDREN Returns to CTV Atlantic, Sunday June 6

Tags: @CTVAtlantic

HALIFAX (June 1, 2021) – CTV Atlantic delivers the 2021 IWK Telethon, bringing together Maritimers from around the region virtually, while highlighting the inspirational stories of patients and families whose lives have been forever changed by IWK Health. The 37^th IWK TELETHON FOR CHILDREN airs from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. AT on Sunday, June 6 on CTV Atlantic.

The IWK TELETHON FOR CHILDREN is the IWK’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting the organization’s most urgent priority needs, including up-to-date equipment, advanced technology, research, and improved facilities. Donations can be made by calling 1-800-595-2266 or online at www.iwkfoundation.org.

After the 2020 edition of the telethon was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual fundraiser returns, filmed in accordance with all government and industry COVID-19 protocols, and featuring guests contributing remotely from across the region.

Viewers can expect to see many familiar faces from CTV Atlantic on the 2021 IWK TELETHON FOR CHILDREN, including Executive News Editor and Senior Anchor Steve Murphy; CTV NEWS AT FIVE hosts Jayson Baxter and Maria Panopalis; and CTV NEWS AT FIVE entertainment reporter Katie Kelly. The CTV MORNING LIVE ATLANTIC team also makes appearances during the program.

The 2021 IWK TELETHON FOR CHILDREN features virtual performances by Maritime musicians such as Matt Anderson, Owen O’Sound Lee, and Lennie Gallant, along with a special performance by IWK favourite Dave Gunning.

“While so much has changed as a result of the pandemic, what won’t ever change is that Maritime kids and their families need the IWK and they need it to remain exceptional. That’s exactly what the funds raised through this Telethon help support,” says Jennifer Gillivan, President & CEO, IWK Foundation. “Although we can’t physically be together this year, our broadcast is connecting IWK supporters from every corner of the Maritimes and it’s going to be a true celebration of the power of our community coming together. For that we are so grateful.”

“We are very excited to bring back the IWK TELETHON FOR CHILDREN this year, with our whole team ensuring everyone taking part does so in a safe manner,” said Trent McGrath, General Manager, CTV Atlantic. “With a bit of creative thinking and a whole lot of determination, we are so pleased to see this beloved Maritime tradition continue.”

CTV Atlantic hosts the telethon broadcast from the station’s Halifax studios, with virtual guests joining from all over the region – including donors, as well as current and former IWK patients, families, and caregivers.