Grand Christmas Charity Orchestra: the foundation that changed Polish medicine
The Grand Christmas Charity Orchestra has been uniting Poles for 33 years. The foundation was founded in 1993 with the aim of bringing help to those who need it most. It supports public health in Poland by purchasing state-of-the-art equipment for hospitals and clinics. To date, the Grand Orchestra has contributed to the implementation of eight national medical programmes.
Mr. Robot, a volunteer dressed as a robot, wouldn't miss the event for the world: "I can see how happy people are. It's good entertainment and I'm glad that such an event has been held every year for the past 33 years in our country."
Since it was set up, the foundation has raised almost €474 million for medical aid. Donors receive heart-shaped stickers in exchange for their donations.
Eryk, a volunteer with the foundation, has himself benefited from the equipment set up thanks to it: "I think it's worth helping. I was in an accident, and when I woke up from a coma in hospital, the first thing I saw were the machines [in the hospital room] with heart stickers. Since then, every year I've gone to raise money. This is the sixth time I've done it."
Integral part of Polish culture
This year's campaign mobilised hundreds of thousands of volunteers in Poland and abroad, in 23 countries.
Dorota is a foundation volunteer. She dresses up as a Barbie doll to attract the attention of passers-by. Her children have also benefited from the foundation's donations. "I'm wearing this costume because I wanted to attract people's attention. There are a lot of volunteers. We dressed up to raise as much money as possible. I can see the foundation's legacy in the hospitals. When my children were born, they also used the material [donations] from the Orchestra."
The Grand Christmas Orchestra does more than just collect money in the streets. It organises concerts, workshops and fairs.
The charity has become an integral part of Polish culture, wkith the Orchestra's red heart logo an ubiquitous symbol of support for those in need.
Every year, politicians, celebrities and ordinary citizens take part, providing a lasting legacy for the future. That's why the organisers hope that this year, as in previous years, they will raise record amounts.
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