Independent public TV station KCET Los Angeles announced that $70,495 was raised during its live televised benefit for Japan–100% of which will go toward relief efforts in the region most affected by the earthquake and tsunami disasters.
UPDATE: The final tally was $90,304.
The fundraising show aired May 24th 8-11 pm, including a special guest appearance by Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.
The show will be rebroadcast on Saturday, May 28th, 3-6 pm. Donations can continue to be made by calling 888-202-2750.
KCET is working with the US-Japan Council to disburse funds to non-government relief organizations in Japan, including the Japan Platform and the Center for Public Resource Development.
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Hosted by KTLA’s Frank Buckley, Fox 11’s Susan Hirasuna and actress Lily Mariye, KCET’s live telecast included several leaders from the Los Angeles community, including Consul General Junichi Ihara, actor George Takei, LA Deputy Police Chief Terry Hara and U.S.-Japan Council’s Bryan Takeda, among others.
“Congratulations to the people of Los Angeles for rallying together to help ease the suffering of families in the devastated areas of Japan. Your generosity is admirable,” said Mayor Villaraigosa.
“We are thrilled to be able to facilitate such a significant contribution to help those in continued need in Japan. Although we’re not surprised at the charity of our viewers, we are certainly very thankful,” said Al Jerome, KCET’s president and CEO.
