THE 43rd MS Readathon has opened registrations for 2021, encouraging Aussies to jump off social media and dive into a good book, all for a good cause.
MS is a condition of the central nervous system, interfering with nerve impulses within the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Unfortunately, there is no known cure therefore MSWA Readathon is imperative in the fight against the disease in Australia.
The annual campaign is one of Australia’s longest-running charity initiatives, inspiring kids to read as much as they can throughout August to raise vital funds for the 25,600 Australians living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and their family members.
Last year sign up numbers in Victoria nearly tripled from 2019 with 4,822 sign ups to 2020 with 13,969, so the charity is calling on Victorian families to get involved this year to surpass last year’s numbers.
In 2020, more than 270,000 books were read by almost 50,000 dedicated children across Australia, raising more than $4M to fund vital support services
The money raised goes towards MS Family Camps and Fun Days, that provide an opportunity for children who have a parent living with MS to spend quality time with their family, learn more about the condition and bond with other families who are sharing their journey.
“Not only is the Readathon a great way to raise vital funds, but it also encourages young Aussies to jump off social media and dive into a great book,” Individual Giving at Multiple Sclerosis Ltd senior manager, Elizabeth Dorizac, said.
“It is a well-known fact that reading is great for kids’ language and personal development, so it really is an initiative that benefits everyone.”
Kids, adults and schools are invited to register for the challenge and track their reading tally at www.msreadathon.org.
