Montgomery, AL- Mark Bunting, general manager of WSFA 12 News announced that the news organization will host the 2nd Annual Day of Dreams Telethon on Thursday October 27, 2022 from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm to benefit the Mercy House and MAP Center Ministry. Last year WSFA 12 News donated its former television station to Mercy House and MAP Center with the hope that the agency headed by Pastor Ken Austin, Executive Director, would expand and enhance critically needed services to West Montgomery disadvantaged children and families.
“We are truly amazed at the significant progress Ken has made changing the trajectory of lives in one year on a shoestring budget. Our WSFA 12 News team is honored to continue partnering with Mercy House and MAP Center to bring opportunity and build a stronger community” said Bunting at a planning meeting for the event. WSFA 12 News will be providing live updates from the telethon starting at 5:30 am on Today in Alabama through WSFA 12 News at 6:00 pm.
“Everything we do is aimed at helping others see their hopes and dreams realized for themselves, their family, home, and community,” said Pastor Ken Austin. Proceeds from the 2021 telethon went directly to feeding, clothing, and providing hygiene products as the number of vulnerable citizens nearly doubled over 12 months. To strengthen efforts to disrupt the cycle of poverty and end the food line the agency established a GED program with Trenholm State Community College and enhanced its summer enrichment day camp and afterschool tutoring and homework assistance program. Both programs are housed at the agency’s facility located on 12 East Delano Avenue donated by WFSA 12 News.
“Our success is built on a foundation of prayer and the power of community partnerships and engagement,” said Pastor Austin. Through the strong support of donors and volunteers, the agency provides opportunity to an ever-growing number of children and adults during a typical week. The agency delivers holistic services focused on meeting each person wherever they are in their journey. “Our support services are customized to the situation and needs of the individual” according to Pastor Austin who started the ministry with his wife Thomasina in 2004.
“Pastor Austin would be the first to say that for all the accomplishments thus far, so much more work needs to be done” said former Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange a key supporter of the Mercy House and MAP Center. Mr. Strange and other community leaders from a diverse cross section of Montgomery are imploring all residents to tune in on October 27th and give generously with no amount being considered too small when it comes from the heart. “We need all the good people of our city to help out now more than ever” said Rev. Dr. Walter Albritton, former senior pastor at St. James Methodist Church.
Pastor Austin invites everyone to visit MAP Center to tour the repurposed television station.
Make your pledge during the telethon by calling the phone number provided by WSFA 12 News broadcast or go to mercyhousemgm.org/telethon to make your pledge, give online or you can text to “GIVE” to 334-206-8886
For additional information about the Day of Dreams Telethon, please contact Kim Boston, [email protected]
https://www.wsfa.com/2022/10/13/wsfa-hold-2022-day-dream-telethon-benefiting-map-center-mercy-house/
