The 18th Grand Final of the Orchestra of Christmas Charity started its money collection early this morning. This time the Orchestra plays for children with oncological diseases.
The Orchestra, which is the biggest non governmental, non profit charity organisation in Poland, unites Poles around the world. Collections and auctions are held on both sides of the globe underlines Jurek Owsiak, the founder and director of the orchestra: 'Orchestra points are set up around the world, people wonder who will take part, who will contribute, but this is what the Orchestra is all about - people really want to be part of it. It is a great thing to have many important personalities contributing to the orchestra. We receive presents from politicians, artists and many others. These presents are put on auction'
Young people who volunteer to take part in the money collection appear throughout Poland, Europe, the US carrying the characteristic collection boxes with the Orchestra's emblem: a red heart.
Presents for the auction come from all possible directions. The Presidential Office has offered for example President Lech Kaczynski's tie, a fountain pen with the signature of the First Lady, as well as a possibility to spend a weekend at the Presidential Palace.
Poland's top ski jumper Adam Malysz has donated two sweatshirts with the signatures of the Polish representation for the Vancouver winter Olympics. The national Okecie airport on its part is offering trips around the facility, where only authorized personnel are allowed.
The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity is the biggest such action in this country uniting thousands of people. Every year millions of Poles donate their money. Throughout seventeen Great Finales, the Foundation collected nearly $100 million for cardio-surgery, neonatology, pediatric oncology, kidney diseases, congenital defects, newborns and children under 5 years of age. (ab)
Related link: The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity web site (English version)
Related audio: You too can be part of the Orchestra!