WPBS-TV hosts virtual telethon benefitting four United Ways during COVID-19
Kingston, ON (April 30, 2020) – At this time like no other we have known – many citizens, organizations and associations are asking what they can do to help. WPBS-TV asked the same question and came up with a special initiative that celebrates the many talented musicians and artists in our community while benefiting the United Ways that serve the regions across Northern New York and Eastern Ontario.
“Music Across the Border: A Benefit Concert for the United Way”, a fundraiser for four United Way organizations in Canada and USA (Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington; Eastern Ontario; Northern New York; and Greater Oswego County) will take place on Tuesday, May 5th, 7:30 – 9:00 – Giving Tuesday.
This 90-minute special will be broadcast on WPBS-TV p.m and is available in Kingston on Cogeco, channel 12, Bell Fibe channel 224, and WTC Communications channel 1153.
Fifteen musicians from across the region have contributed performances including Kingston artists Miss Emily and Paul Langlois.
In addition to the performances, the special will include short videos profiling the work being done by the four United Ways and the non-profits that provide help to those in need at this unprecedented time.
“We are grateful to WPBS-TV for taking on this special initiative and excited to be a part of it,” said Bhavana Varma, President and CEO, United Way KFL&A. “We are thrilled that Paul Langlois and Miss Emily are performing. And you can hear from 2019 Campaign Chair and Board Member, Scott Harris, and Director of the Kingston Youth Shelter, Denise Lamb, who will be speaking about the impact of funds raised through our COVID-19 Response Fund. We hope community members will tune in, learn about the impact, and lend their support during this global crisis.”
Viewers can pledge their support during the program by calling into a central toll-free number which will route their call to the United Way serving their region, or online.
“Coming together to enjoy great music is one of life’s essential pleasures, and WPBS and great musicians from across our region are working together to offer that experience “virtually”, while at the same time making a contribution to those who need help at this challenging time,” said Mark Prasuhn, President and General Manager, WPBS-TV.
Tune in to WPBS on Tuesday, May 5th, enjoy some music and pledge your support to the critical work your United Way is doing in our community.
And for more information on the United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington COVID-19 Response Fund visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca/covid-19/
About WPBS TV
WPBS TV is a PBS station serving approximately 650,000 households throughout Northern New York and Eastern Ontario via cable, satellite, Internet and over-the-air distribution. WPBS is a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate, entertain and inform its audience through superior local and national content and media engagement, in order to enhance the lives of those it serves.
Performances by:
Joe Bouchard, guitarist/bassist and a founding member of Blue Oyster Cult; Andy Taylor; keyboardist Noah Landers; guitarist Trevor Gordon Hall; guitarist and former member of The Tragically Hip Paul Langlois; vocalist Donald George and keyboardist Rosemarie Suniga, both faculty members at the Crane School of Music; harpist Esther Underhay; musician and deejay Craig Foster; violinist Lin Call; artist Wilson Bickford; singer-songwriter Miss Emily and musical groups Smoke and Shadows, Bread and Circuses, and Annie in the Water
About United Way of KFL&A
United Way works with individuals, organizations and key partners in KFL&A to build and strengthen the community, bringing people and resources together to facilitate change. Our vision is a future where people are self-sufficient in a community, where individuals live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging. Visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca for more information.
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Media Contacts:
With social distancing in mind, interviews can be conducted via phone, Zoom or Skype
Mandy Pasch, Manager, Marketing and Communications
United Way KFL&A
613-876-3088, marketing@unitedwaykfla.ca
Mark Prasuhn, President & General Manager,
WPBS TV
315-921-1023, mprasuhn@wpbstv.org
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