More than 700 bowlers raised $100,000 for children and families in need at the 15th annual Max Keeping Birthdate Bowlathon on Sunday.

The money will help send kids to camp and allow them to participate in sports and art programs offered in the community.

"Poor kids dream too, there's no reason they shouldn't be able to go to camp, get scholarships," said Max Keeping.

With jobless numbers shooting up across the region, many expect financial help will be particularly important for many families over the next year.

"There's no question in the midst of an economic recession, people turn more often to both government and charities," Ontario Municipal Affairs Minster Jim Watson told CTV Ottawa.

"Everything is just going up in price, so to do something like this for kids is just awesome," added parent Sandy O'Connor.

Kids, parents and politicians descended on the bowling lanes at the Merivale Bowling Centre Sunday to mark the annual fundraiser.

"We're all in this together, so I think we should all help each other," said Grade 10 student Michael Lesaux.

"I have all my friends and family here that I can play bowling, and I like bowling a lot," added young bowler Reagan Wallace.

The Max Keeping Foundation helps thousands of children and their families who are often overlooked or don't meet the requirements set out by other charities in the community.

With a report from CTV Ottawa's Vanessa Lee