The annual Christmas Radiothons hosted by Moose FM’s two Muskoka stations raised a total of $180,628 for the local Salvation Army.
The 24-hour radiothon at 99.5 Moose FM in Bracebridge, held on Dec. 4 and 5, raised $147,978 for Salvation Army South Muskoka Ministries. Meanwhile, 105.5 Moose FM Huntsville, held on Dec. 5, raised $32,650 for the Salvation Army Huntsville during a 12-hour broadcast.
Lieutenant Brandon Keeping of the South Muskoka branch said they are grateful that the community trusts them to give back.
“It means absolutely everything. We couldn’t do any of this if it weren’t for our local community. Unbelievable support,” said Keeping.
According to Keeping, the funds collected will support everything they do year-round, including their food banks, programs, and assistance for the homeless and those with addiction, while also creating a space for community and supporting those who need it most.
Major Dwayne LeDrew, officer with the Salvation Army Huntsville, said the community’s support left their hearts “full of joy.”
“It means so much. My heart is overflowing with the amount that people have donated to us. The generosity is just amazing. Even when we know that most people are struggling, they’ve still come through and helped us help others,” said LeDrew.
LeDrew said the funds collected will be used to purchase toys for children over the holidays and to maintain food bank stock throughout the year.
