Bell has revealed the results of its 2021 Bell Let’s Talk Day, where social interactions result in the company donating 5 cents per message.
The campaign yesterday across talk, text and social media generated 159,173,435 interactions, an increase of 3.1% compared to last year. The donation total was $7,958,671.75, up $239,300.50 compared to 2020.
“Once again we led the world in talking openly and honestly about mental health and all the ways we can make a difference for people living with mental illness. As we face the added mental health impacts of the COVID crisis, your action is appreciated now more than ever,” said Mirko Bibic, President and CEO of Bell Canada and BCE.
Despite the campaign making people feel warm and fuzzy, not everyone supported Bell. TekSavvy pointed out today Bell used $122 million from the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy last year, while also hiking its dividend payout to shareholders, a move that saw Members of Parliament lash out at the company this week.
Wouldn’t it be nice if Bell — worth BILLIONS — put Canadians ahead of shareholders? Just once? https://t.co/A98nk00UWM
— OpenMedia (@OpenMediaOrg) January 29, 2021
According to Bell, it says their total funding commitment has reached $121 million, and is “on track” to reach its $155 million target.
