News & Events
February 05, 2016 WWJ Newsradio 950 to host 13th Annual Winter Survival Radiothon to benefit The Heat and Warmth Fund
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 1, 2016
Contacts:
Mark Lane, THAW
Director of Communications
(313) 528-0270
[email protected]
Shaun Wilson, for THAW
(313) 530-7860
[email protected]
WWJ Newsradio 950 to host 13th Annual Winter Survival Radiothon to benefit The Heat and Warmth Fund
14-hour Radiothon Aims to Raise $1.6M in Emergency Energy Assistance Funding
DETROIT – It may have taken a while, but winter has arrived in Michigan. For many of our state’s vulnerable citizens, their own homes will not protect them from the harshness of winter temperatures. To help our neighbors in need keep their heat and lights on, The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) has once again teamed up with WWJ Newsradio 950 for its 13th Annual Winter Survival Radiothon.
The live broadcast will take place at WWJ Newsradio 950’s studio from 5 a.m.-7 p.m., on Friday, February 12th.
Since 2004, WWJ’s Winter Survival Radiothon has raised more than $12M in cash and utility match for THAW. Organizers hope to meet the Radiothon’s goal of raising $1.6M through call-in donations, sponsorships, events, online auctions and a portion of dollars will be matched by DTE Energy and local businesses.
“We are proud to celebrate THAW’s 30th anniversary and continue our commitment to ensure our most vulnerable citizens remain healthy, safe and warm during harsh winters.” said Saunteel Jenkins, CEO of THAW. “The WWJ Winter Survival Radiothon is a primary source of community support that has allowed us to provide assistance to many families that would not have heat or electricity otherwise.”
Volunteers and supporters from local businesses, schools and community organizations will work the phone banks receiving donations. Appearances from area leaders and personalities from government, business, entertainment, and sports sectors will be on hand during the Radiothon to encourage donations and to offer their support of THAW’s mission.
“WWJ Newsradio 950 understands that heat and electricity are a necessity during Michigan winters. We are proud to offer our support to THAW through the Winter Survival Radiothon and to help them assist Michigan’s vulnerable residents this winter,” said Debbie Kenyon, senior vice president/market manager of CBS Radio Detroit.
In conjunction with the Radiothon, there are several supplementary events and fundraisers to engage the public, including:
- Online Auction – Beginning Monday, Feb. 8 at 6:00 a.m. through Monday, Feb. 15 at 6:00 p.m., bid on exciting regional items from Detroit’s leading business, cultural institutions and sporting venues. Visit thawfund.org to join the auction.
- Cocktails for a Cause – Join host David Johnson, vice president of customer service and marketing at DTE Energy, and THAW as they gather Detroit’s finest leaders and media personalities to raise funds for THAW. Tuesday, Feb. 9 from 4:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. at La Casa Cigar Lounge. Tickets are $30 dollars and can be purchased online at thawfund.org or can be purchased at the door for $35.
In celebration of THAW’s 30th anniversary, WWJ and THAW are introducing the “WWJ THAW 360 Club”. Making a one-time donation of $360 or $30 a month for one year earns supporters a spot in the 360 Club and a limited edition THAW travel mug. Donations can be made by calling the Winter Survival Radiothon hotline at (888) 579-4950 or online at www.thawfund.com or www.cbsdetroit.com.
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About WWJ Newsradio 950
Owned and operated by CBS RADIO, WWJ Newsradio 950 is Detroit’s all-news radio station which also provides content for the Michigan News Network, the state’s preeminent news and information source for radio affiliates throughout the state. WWJ-AM can be heard online at www.cbsdetroit.com and via the Radio.com application for a variety of mobile devices. CBS RADIO, one of the largest major-market radio operators in the United States is a division of CBS Corporation. CBS RADIO operates 117 radio stations, the majority of which are in the nation’s top 50 markets. In Detroit, CBS RADIO also owns and operates WOMC-FM, WYCD-FM, WDZH-FM, WXYT-FM and WXYT-AM.
About The Heat and Warmth Fund
The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW), is an independent non-profit (501(c)(3) agency that provides emergency assistance to Michigan residents in need and advocates for long-term energy solutions. THAW was established in 1985 in order to improve the quality of life in Michigan and prevent human suffering by helping low-income individual’s facing an energy crisis. THAW was awarded the prestigious star rating for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency by Charity Navigator. To learn more about THAW, to inquire about assistance, or to make a donation, visit www.thawfund.org or call 1-800-866-THAW (8429).