One afternoon to make a difference for Ontario's kids with physical
disabilities

TORONTO, March 2 /CNW/ - Kids grow-up fast. For parents of kids with physical disabilities, however, a child's growth-spurt can mean replacing costly equipment needed for their mobility and independence. Carter Keith is nearly 6-years-old, and has already outgrown three wheelchairs. Easter Seals Ontario was there to help by providing financial assistance for the essential, but costly, mobility equipment that Carter needed but that the family was finding difficult to afford.

On Sunday, March 14th, from 12:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., the annual Easter Seals Telethon appeals for public support to help kids with physical disabilities and their families. Airing on CBC and affiliate broadcasters the 27th annual Easter Seals Telethon recognizes generous supporters, and asks viewers to help make a difference in the lives of Easter Seals kids.

"Canon Canada has been committed to supporting Easter Seals kids for many years and we are delighted to be involved. This is the perfect opportunity for Canon to give back to our community, while raising much needed funds for Easter Seals children and their families," says Colleen Ryan, Director of Corporate Communication and General & Environmental Affairs of Canon Canada.

Easter Seals Ontario assists families of kids with physical disabilities with the purchase of costly mobility equipment and communication devices. By providing financial assistance, Easter Seals performs an essential service to families who might not otherwise have the resources to obtain this equipment. Easter Seals also owns and operates two fully accessible camp properties and is recognized as an industry leader in providing specialized recreation programs for kids with physical disabilities at Easter Seals camps.

"All year-round, but especially during the annual Easter Seals Telethon, we wish to thank supporters and tell people about the importance of their donations in helping children with physical disabilities live safely in their own homes with dignity, and a greater level of independence," says Carol Lloyd, President and CEO, Easter Seals Ontario.

The 2010 Easter Seals Telethon will be a touching and inspirational show featuring Easter Seals kids and special live performances by Gemini nominated singer/songwriter Justin Hines, beloved children's storyteller and author Robert Munsch and the beautiful melodies of the music duo, Dala.

The success in generating public awareness and support for the Easter Seals Telethon has hinged on the continuing commitment of the celebrity hosts including: Roger Abbott, Don Ferguson and Jessica Holmes from the long-running CBC comedy series, Royal Canadian Air Farce; as well as, Erin Davis, Barb DiGiulio, Tom Harrington and Ann Rohmer.

The annual Easter Seals Telethon is a major part of Easter Seals' fundraising campaign March is Easter Seals Month. During March is Easter Seals Month, there are many ways to help kids with physical disabilities. Participating retailers across Ontario will be offering Paper Eggs in support of Easter Seals kids for $2 from March 12th to April 4th. For more information or to donate online visit www.easterseals.org.

For further information: For media inquiries, contact: Easter Seals Ontario, Communications Department, Barb Saunders, [phone] ext 326, Cell: [phone]