Organization
Teletón Foundation Chile
Chile's Teletón Foundation operates 14 rehabilitation institutes serving 93.5% of children and young people with motor disabilities nationwide. Founded in 1978 and funded by an annual national telethon, it has raised over US$286 million and is proportionally one of the most-watched telethons in the world.
About
Fundación Teletón Chile was established in 1978. Its annual 27-hour telethon, broadcast by Chile's major television networks each December, has raised more than US$286 million since its first edition, funding a nationwide network of 14 Instituto de Rehabilitación Infantil centres.
What They Do
Teletón's 14 institutes across Chile — from Arica in the north to Coyhaique in the south — provide integrated, multidisciplinary rehabilitation care free of charge to children and young people with neuro-musculo-skeletal and motor disabilities. Services cover physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical consultation, assistive technology, and social support. The foundation covers care until age 20 for congenital disabilities and age 24 for acquired conditions.
Who They Serve
Teletón serves children and young people with motor disabilities — primarily cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and acquired motor conditions — as well as their families who receive guidance and psychosocial support throughout the rehabilitation journey. Its 14 institutes collectively reach 93.5% of children in Chile who require motor rehabilitation.
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