The American Cancer Society's 21st annual Relay for Life at Veterans Memorial Stadium at Pottsville Area High School is still on its way to achieving its goal of raising $149,000.
The 24-hour event kicked off at 3 p.m. Friday with opening ceremonies at 6 p.m. Relay for Life events raise money to support cancer patient services, life-saving research, prevention education and advocacy efforts.
The goal this year was to raise $149,000, but participants raised about $105,000 as of Saturday evening, Ilyse Hampton, staff partner for the event, said. Although falling short, donations for the event can still be made until Dec. 31.
Teams are also still submitting donations, Hampton said.
According to the Pottsville Relay for Life's page at www.relayforlife.org, 53 teams totalling 460 people participated.
Last year, the event raised $129,000.
For up-to-date information on the Pottsville Relay for Life, follow the event's Facebook and Twitter pages or visit www.relayforlife.org.
People can also keep up with the event and planning for next year through text messages from the American Cancer Society. To sign up for the service, text 2146 to 22723.