Make the call. It feels good and you can win stuff (9 photos)

Until 7 p.m. tonight, approximately 40 volunteers and 13 phone lines will be at the ready to take your calls and accept your donations during the 26th annual Easter Seals Telethon hosted at the Civic Centre by the Rotary Club of Sault Ste. Marie.

Rotary Club President Anthony Zappacosta told SooToday.com that an estimated 80 local families directly benefit from the funds raised by the telethon.

"The biggest need out there is the financial commitment for equipment and retrofitting homes," he explained. "Many things like wheelchairs, communication devices and ramps. On top of that, donations fund the Easter Seals Summer Camps, as well as travel expenses for medical appointments."

2012 marks the 90th anniversary of Easter Seals Ontario and this year's local telethon target is $120,000.

Everyone who donates $100 or more will be entered into a draw for three separate prizes; a Bobby Orr Hall of Fame jersey, a Zdeno Chara NHL All Star jersey or four tickets to the upcoming Bryan Adams concert at the Essar Centre.

With a pledge of between $36 and $99, donors will be entered into a draw for a Canon camera and printer.

Other prize donors include Domino's Pizza, Savoy's Jewellers, the Station Mall, Final Touch, and Don Ferguson of Air Farce.

Readers are encouraged to call 705-254-KIDS (5437) to make a pledge and help the cause.

Donations may also be made online at www.easterseals.org