A foundation which strives to provide Colombia’s disabled citizens with essential services has exceeded its fundraising goal during a weekend telethon for Colombia’s disabled, by raising over $5,800,000.
The 27 hour live telethon run by Teleton Colombia exceeded the $5,500,000 fundraising goal, bringing in over $5,800,000 to help support Colombia’s disabled. The funds raised will be used to run the foundation’s rehabilitation centers throughout the country.
MORE: Foundation, celebrities raise money for Colombia’s disabled
“Many thanks to all of Colombia. The surpassed goal indicates a solidarity on the part of all Colombians, [and] we are pleased to have received this support which will be reflected in the hard work [we do] for people with physical disabilities. We are making the impossible possible”, said President Fernando Pinilla of Teleton Colombia.
The event was supported by a host of Colombian celebrities, including a former Miss Colombia and famous Colombian soccer player Radamel Falcao. Falcao’s contribution came through the auction of his Spanish team’s soccer jersey, signed by the entire Atletico Madrid team, with the proceeds of the sale going to the foundation.
Teleton Colombia’s rehabilitation centers provide comprehensive support for disabled citizens in the form of medical services, health programs, vocational training, and social support services.
Colombia on Wednesday passed a Disablities Act that aims to eliminate discrimination and ensure employment opportunities, access to adequate healthcare, quality education and housing, and better transportation facilities for disabled Colombians.
MORE: Colombia passes Disability Act
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