The Teletón 2024, held on December 14, concluded with more excitement and energy than ever as it broke its fundraising record once again. The event, which was broadcast live for over 16 hours on Televisa, gathered numerous celebrities, artists, and influencers, all united for one cause: raising funds for children with disabilities, cancer, and other serious medical conditions.
With the aim this year to surpass the previous year's total of 415 million 119 thousand 436 pesos by raising one additional peso, the effort culminated successfully with the final tally of 420 million 770 thousand 69 pesos collected. This achievement ensures the construction of the 27th Center for Rehabilitation and Inclusion for Children (CRIT) to assist those who need specialized care.
"¡Lo logramos, México! Gracias a la generosidad y al corazón de todos los mexicanos y mexicanas ¡alcanzamos la meta en este 2024. Tu apoyo ha sido fundamental para hacer realidad este sueño y demostrar que #TodosSomosTeletón," exclaimed the organization on social media after announcing the impressive amount raised.
The star-studded lineup included respected artists such as Lucero, her daughter Lucerito, and Manuel Mijares, who delivered touching performances underscoring the event's significance. Other notable entertainers included María José, Yahir, Jesse and Joy, and Flans, who also participated to inspire donations. The official closing ceremony was held at Parque Aztlán within the Bosque de Chapultepec, concluding with heartfelt remarks from the president of Fundación Teletón, Fernando Landeros, who expressed gratitude to all supporters for helping the organization reach its ambitious goal.
Landeros stated, "Gracias a México, gracias a cada niño que nos inspiró, gracias por ser orgullosamente tercos." The Teletón has grown and adapted over its 27-year history—since its inception, the foundation has continuously focused on supporting children with disabilities and their families.
This year's campaign not only aimed at constructing the new center but also emphasized the needs for therapies and treatments for many children dealing with significant health challenges, including cancer and autism. Each year, the funds raised help maintain and expand the services provided at existing CRIT locations across the nation.
According to reports, the funds raised this year will provide medical treatments and therapies across various CRIT centers, catering to children from low-income families who face these significant challenges. The $420 million raised this year will be instrumental for the opening of the new center, located in San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur.
The televised marathon created awareness and showcased various compelling stories from families whose lives have been positively influenced by the work of the Teletón. These testimonies, like those of migrants and families facing economic hardships, highlight the impact of charitable contributions on vulnerable children, evoking emotions and encouraging people to donate.
Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico, expressed her support via video, highlighting the efforts made by the Teletón to assist children with disabilities and the need for greater support for rehabilitation. She noted, "Quiero felicitar a la fundación Teletón por esta nueva edición que están haciendo para recabar fondos para esta noble causa, de atender a los niños y niñas con alguna discapacidad, cáncer o autismo." Her words added official recognition and encouragement to this charitable initiative.
This year's Teletón significantly succeeded thanks to the commitment of many involved, including organizations and private donors who contributed throughout the year. The event not only surpassed its financial goal but also strengthened the community's resolve to assist those less fortunate, exemplifying grief, hope, and determination mixed with entertainment.
With this significant milestone achieved, the Teletón is set to continue its legacy of helping children. Now, with 24 CRIT centers already operational, alongside the one hospital focused on pediatric oncology care and facilities addressing autism, the organization is well-positioned to expand its range of services and impact.
Conclusively, the successful outcomes of Teletón 2024 highlight the compassionate spirit of the Mexican people, fostering hope for children with disabilities, and setting the stage for continued support and growth of this noble cause well beyond the fundraiser itself. The commitment and generosity displayed will resonate as the foundation works to build its 27th CRIT and continues aiding those who are most vulnerable.
