The Srefidensi Telethon officially commenced on Saturday at the Congreshal, marking a significant fundraising initiative for Suriname’s 50th anniversary of state independence. Within the first half-hour, the campaign successfully raised over SRD 10,000 through phone calls, SMS, physical donations, and bank transfers. The event, running until October 31, aims to collect a total of SRD 25 million. Organized by the Commission for 50 Years of State Independence, the Telethon seeks to fund the grand celebrations, estimated to cost SRD 65 million, with 60% of the funds allocated to schoolchildren and 40% to the festivities themselves. The initiative has garnered positive responses, including from the diaspora, as highlighted by coordinator Rachel Pinas. Influencers and TV personalities will engage with communities nationwide to encourage contributions, with the Congreshal serving as the central collection point. Pinas emphasized that donations can start from as little as SRD 50, urging everyone to participate generously.