Telethon Raises $40,770 for Natick Service Council

In its inaugural appearance on Wednesday, the raised around $40,770. The money will be used to stock the food pantry and for eviction prevention, mental health counseling, access to healthcare and other services that the NSC provides.

"We are thrilled," said Firkins Reed the council's director of development and outreach. Thursday morning, donations were still pouring in, she said. "We're really excited there was so much involvement and the kids were so excited it really was a community event."

Before the telethon on Wednesday night, which ran from 6 to 9 p.m. on Natick Pegasus, the NSC had a stated goal of $30,000. Before the night was over, the goal was well surpassed. The event was hosted by WCVB-TV personality Susan Wornick.

Reed said the NSC plans to make the telethon an annual event.

The council has reported a 10 percent increase in food pantry use so far this year and more than 600 families use the organization's many services.

If you're interested in making a donation to the Natick Service Council, visit their telethon page and click on the "Donate Now" button to make a payment through PayPal. Donations are still being accepted.