THE PRESS MONDAY, JUNE 27, 1983. Something for everyone

Press, 27 June 1983, Page 18

THE PRESS MONDAY, JUNE 27, 1983. Something for everyone

A wide range of social services concerned about the well-being of families in New Zealand will benefit from the millions of dollars raised at the week-end by Telethon ’B3. Up and down the country thousands of families have already enjoyed one of Telethon’s greatest benefits — a huge mid-winter party that lasts for 24 hours and offers wholesome fun, and a bewildering variety of entertainments, to anyone who cares to join in. When times are hard, and there is widespread grizzling that “they orta do something” about deficiencies in the system, everyone has had an opportunity to recognise that they make up the system. Telethon is an opportunity for all who want to help those who are less fortunate to take part in the fundraising, and to give money to those who can pinpoint and help the families whose need is greatest. The focus of this year’s Telethon — the family — is less precise than some of the earlier causes helped by Telethon. It should have been a cause that appeals to everyone. Families are like apple pies — it’s hard to be against them. Fund-raising has been going on for days,

even weeks. The entertained, and entertaining, throngs at the television venues in the main centres have been backed up by enthusiastic smaller gatherings in communities everywhere. Daft stunts on the streets, diverting entertainment on television — all have helped to swell the total. Public displays of good humour and good fun this week-end made a refreshing change from the dreary placards that often seem to be the mark of public exhibitions of concern for a cause. Telethon ’Bl raised a record of over $5 million for the International Year of the Disabled Person. Perhaps times are especially hard, perhaps the novelty of Telethon has diminished a little. The gifts and promises this year still make up a generous total, ahead of all but one of the previous six Telethons. Great numbers of people have been diverted, some have made sacrifices, some have had a grand opportunity to entertain others, and thousands of people have been entertained and encouraged to help a worthy cause. Winter weather and economic chills seem a little less bleak after a week-end of thoroughly good fun. ;