BE A HOMELESS PET’S VALENTINE: TUNE IN TO THE MHS 2009 VALENTINE’S TELETHON ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12 ON WXYZ
$120 can buy chocolates and flowers for Valentine’s Day,
but it could also change a life

Southfield, Mich. - The average American spends nearly $120 on Valentine’s Day gifts for their special someone, with flowers and chocolates headlining that spending.  But, within days, that special someone is left only with wilted flowers or the fleeting joy of eating chocolate.  The Michigan Humane Society hopes animal lovers will celebrate the season by “Sharing the Love” through donations in support of its 13th annual Telethon. The MHS 2009 Valentine’s Telethon will air Thursday, February 12 on WXYZ Channel 7 in short segments during commercial breaks from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

“The Valentine’s Telethon raises critical funds for the Michigan Humane Society, and even more so during these challenging economic times which have increased the need for MHS’ lifesaving services,” said Cal Morgan, president and CEO for the Michigan Humane Society. “We are grateful for the generous community support which directly translates into our ability to transform animal lives.”

Although the tens of thousands of animals who arrive at the Michigan Humane Society need different levels of care, the average cost to change the life of one animal in need is $120.  One-time or monthly donations of any amount will make a difference for animals in need of food, care and loving homes.

MHS Valentine’s Telethon donations can be made online at www.michiganhumane.org on or before Thursday, February 12, or by calling 1-866-MHUMANE on February 12, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Telethon sponsors include Hill’s Science Diet, US-Mattress, Camp Bow Wow, PetSmart, Magic 105.1, and Hour Detroit.

In support of the 2009 Valentine’s Telethon, MHS is also holding a raffle for the opportunity to win a Nintendo® Wii™ and Wii Fit™ package; the winning ticket will be drawn during the 7 p.m. hour of the Telethon. Tickets are $10 each, or three for $25, with 100% of each ticket benefiting MHS.  Tickets can be purchased by calling (248) 283-1000, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by visiting www.michiganhumane.org.  The last day to purchase tickets is Monday, February 9. 

The Michigan Humane Society (MHS) is a private, nonprofit organization which cares for over 100,000 animals each year, while working to end companion animal homelessness, provide the highest quality service and compassion to the animals entrusted to our care, and to be a leader in promoting humane values.

Please be advised that the purchase of raffle tickets is not a tax-deductible contribution. However, 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Michigan Humane Society. This drawing is licensed by the State of Michigan Charitable Gaming Division license #X70946 issued to the Michigan Humane Society (Organization #111067), 30300 Telegraph Road, Suite 220, Bingham Farms, Mich. 48025.

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