The generosity of the WWL audience and listeners of the Audacy family of stations in New Orleans raised $170,391 for Children's Hospital New Orleans during the third annual "Light Up the Season" radiothon.
"Our community was digging deep in giving everything they could," said Jessica Brandt of the Ray and Jessica Brandt Family Foundation. "The Light Up The Season Radiothon provides an opportunity for the community to join in the spirit of giving for no greater cause."
Brandt said it is amazing to see the work that is done by the doctors, nurses, and other staff at Children's.
"I choose to give back because I know that my dollars are making a direct impact for families – from helping provide essential supplies and equipment for the tiniest babies in the NICU, to advanced surgical technology, to providing financial support for the patients and families who need it most," she said.
Children's Hospital President and CEO Lou Fragosa said their mission is to make sure no child has to leave Louisiana for critical medical care, and no patient is turned away because of lack of ability to pay.
"Annually, the hospital provides more than $14 million in charitable care, which is made possible with the support of the community, generous donors and supporters," said Fragosa.
Fragosa said these donations will help Children's Hospital expand vital programs and services, advance technology, innovate care delivery and fund life-saving projects.
"It can happen without the support of our community," said Fragosa. "It's just something really special."
