December 6, 2009 – (Halifax) The giving just didn’t stop at the 46th Annual Christmas Daddies Telethon, with over $827,700 raised at this iconic start to the Maritime Christmas season. As a result of this generosity, 15,000 children around the region will have a special Christmas.

 “We couldn’t be more pleased with the generosity our viewers have shown for their neighbours across the region,” said Steve Murphy, host of the telethon. “We are truly overwhelmed, although not surprised, by this outpouring of support.”

 Of the $827,000 raised, $408,128 came from mainland Nova Scotia, while New Brunswick raised $150,421, Prince Edward Island brought in $32,193 and Cape Breton raised $228,363. Donations from the rest of the country accounted for the remaining $8,595.

 Long-time friends of Christmas Daddies the Navy Divers, Big Leagues in Cole Harbour and Zellers were all on hand to lend very generous support. Musical guests in Halifax included Sons of Maxwell, Marko Simmonds and Daniel Matto, Dutch Robinson and seven-year-old Aaliyah Melann brought, who brought down the house with her version of The Chipmunk song.

 “This was another incredible year,” said Roxanne Robinson, Executive Director for Mainland Nova Scotia, “and we are so thankful that people continue to make underprivileged families in our region a priority at this special time of year.”

 The long-running telethon would not be possible without the generous support of CTV which donates airtime, resources and equipment. Also making an important contribution to the Telethon are the many Bell Aliant employees and Bell Aliant Pioneer Volunteers who answered the phone lines at Aliant call centres in Halifax, NS and Moncton, NB and who answered more than 4,200 calls.

 The Salvation Army will distribute funds raised by the Telethon, and as always, funds stay in the area from which they come. The success of this year’s Telethon will provide toys, gifts and necessities such as clothing and food to over 16,000 children across the region.

Pledges can be honoured at any branch of the Royal Bank or at www.christmasdaddies.org on line.