The 54th annual Santa’s Helpers telethon aired Sunday on CHCO-TV, bringing joy and hope to families in need across Charlotte County, New Brunswick. The five-hour broadcast raised nearly $44,000, with every dollar going toward holiday gifts for children and Christmas meals for families. In a year marked by rising costs, the community’s generosity shone brighter than ever.

Vicki Hogarth – Local Journalism Initiative

Nearly 1,000 children from kindergarten to grade 5 performed in heartwarming school choirs, their voices filling living rooms with the spirit of the season. CHCO-TV recorded these festive performances over two weeks, traveling to St. Stephen Elementary School, Milltown Elementary, Campobello Consolidated School, Lawrence Station School, Vincent Massey Elementary in St. Andrews, and Blacks Harbour School to showcase the talent and holiday excitement of Charlotte County’s youngest residents.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, local leaders joined the effort on the day of the telethon, demonstrating the unity and compassion that define the region. St. Stephen’s Mayor Allan MacEachern, St. Andrews’ Mayor Brad Henderson, Eastern Charlotte Mayor John Craig, and St. Croix MLA Kathy Bockus all took turns reading pledges live on air, encouraging donations and celebrating the community’s kindness.

“This telethon is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a reminder of the strength we have when we come together,” said Santa's Helpers President Lexi Brisley. 

Local residents, businesses, and organizations answered the call, donating generously to ensure no family goes without holiday cheer. The need this year has been especially great, but the response was overwhelming, with pledges coming in from both near and far. 

From phone operators taking pledges to volunteers behind the scenes, the entire event was a testament to the collective power of community. 

As the final total was announced, applause erupted from the CHCO-TV studio, and viewers celebrated the success of a telethon that once again embodied the true spirit of the season.