There has been a coordinated effort on all ABC television shows to help those impacted by the storm by making a contribution to the American Red Cross. The call to action will reach millions of viewers.
"The effects of Hurricane Sandy have impacted millions of people across the entire North East, including many of our co-workers, friends and families. This unprecedented devastation demanded an unprecedented response, so our team came up with the 'Day of Giving,'" said Anne Sweeney, president of Disney-ABC Television Group. "To do what Americans do best, and pull together in support of those who are suffering."
Live blog of ABC's "Day of Giving" to help Superstorm Sandy Victims
Here's how you can participate in ABC's "Day of Giving:"
- TEXT: Text ABC to 90999 to give a $10 donation to the Red Cross.
- ONLINE: Go to www.redcross.org/abc to make a donation of any amount.
- BY PHONE: Call 1-800-HELP-NOW. This number will bypass all the other menu options and direct your call to Hurricane Sandy relief.
"Good Morning America" dedicated the entire 8 a.m. hour to raising money for Sandy relief efforts. Everyone from Barbara Walters to Snooki to Ben Stiller and Grover from "Sesame Street" helped man the phone booth during the show. Then on "LIVE! with Kelly and Michael," the show integrated the message of giving into their Halloween episode, which had been moved due to the storm.
Viewers helped raise more than $13.8 million. Add that to Samsung Corp.'s match of $3 million, and the grand total is more than $16.8 million.
Walters donated $250,000, while George Stephanopoulos kicked in $50,000. Dallas Mavericks owner and star of ABC's "Shark Tank," made an unspecified donation.
Stars signed on to help raise funds for Sandy victims. Actress Kerry Washington of ABC's "Scandal" said in a video message, "We have all been so moved by all of the images of the impact of Hurricane Sandy up and down the East Coast. And if you've been wondering what you can do about it like I have, join us today for ABC's 'Day of Giving.' Give to those who have survived this awful hurricane and storm. Give from your heart, give all that you can."
The "Day of Giving" message was added to Disney's existing relief and rebuilding efforts, which includes the $2 million commitment announced by Disney CEO Bob Iger on Thursday. One million dollars will be donated to the American Red Cross for immediate, critical assistance, and another $1 million will be designated for organizations working on rebuilding efforts.
