Our Stories
Inspirational SickKids stories.
Our Donors
2009 Donor Spotlight Archive
For the week of December 28, 2009
CIBC SickKids Leaders
In 2002, a group of philanthropic CIBC professionals created the CIBC SickKids Leaders group. Every year, they rally their colleagues to raise awareness and funds for SickKids. This committed group of employees has already raised more than $2-million.
In 2008, CIBC SickKids Leaders and CIBC began working together to raise another $2-million to fund the CIBC Clinical Trials project. Thank you to our CIBC SickKids Leaders!
Gowlings
For the week of December 21, 2009
TD Bank Financial Group
Since 1994, TD Bank Financial Group has supported The Hospital for Sick Children through its partnership with Children's Miracle Network. TD Bank Financial Group and its employees raise funds to support children's health through grassroots activities such as golf tournaments, silent auctions, the automatic monthly donation campaign in December and a corporate match program.
Since becoming involved with SickKids, TD Bank Financial Group has given more than $10 million to SickKids Foundation. We thank TD Financial Group for its continued support and passion to make a difference in the lives of children in its own community.
Transamerica Life Canada
In 2008, the charitable giving program of Transamerica Life Canada made a commitment to the Cardiology Department at The Hospital for Sick Children. The investment in a DynaCT, imaging technology for the Cardiac Diagnostic & Interventional Unit, will help improve the lives of children with congenital heart defects and ensure the Hospital has the resources to continue to provide the very best care to its patients.
Transamerica Life Canada is committed to improving the quality of Canadian lives by donating funds to charitable organizations dedicated to the prevention and elimination of heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes. Its investment in the DynaCT is certainly in support of that mission. SickKids gratefully recognizes the valuable contribution Transamerica Life Canada has made to our Foundation.
For the week of December 14, 2009
LCBO
Not only do profits from the LCBO help support a wide range of government social program including health services, but the LCBO also raises funds throughout the year for charities across Ontario. During the month of December, more than 600 LCBO stores across the province are fundraising for SickKids Foundation by displaying donation boxes and encouraging a top-up at the cash register.
We thank LCBO and its employees and customers for raising funds in support of the world-renowned work done at SickKids.
Rally for Kids with Cancer
In 2008, Rally for Kids with Cancer raised an outstanding $1.2 million for cancer research at The Hospital for Sick Children. This unique event brought together car enthusiasts, celebrities and generous contributors to raise money in the fight against cancer.
The Rally for Kids with Cancer took place over two days at locations across the GTA with celebrity navigators helping the drivers solve clues to ultimately win the Scavenger Cup all in the name of cancer research. We thank the generous donors, celebrities, sponsors and Solutions with Impact for making this event a true success.
For the week of December 7, 2009
The Lindt and Hilton Tree of Hope
The Lindt and Hilton Tree of Hope symbolizes the warmth and spirit of the holiday season. Each year, the Tree of Hope is lit to commemorate the season of giving through this generous partnership. For the month of December, Lindt and Hilton collect funds from patrons of the hotel and sponsors, as well as give corporately themselves to collectively raise funds for The Hospital for Sick Children.
SickKids Foundation is extremely grateful for this partnership and the generous funds that are generated to ensure the hospital can continue its great work.
Toys "R" Us
Toys "R" Us continues to inspire with its enthusiasm and generosity to Children's Miracle Network year over year. Its staff focuses their energy, passion and talent on the spring Miracle Balloon campaign.
Toys "R" Us has raised more than $950,000 for SickKids Foundation since 1998. Thank you Toys "R" Us associates for always helping to make a meaningful and significant impact on the health of kids across Canada.
For the week of November 30, 2009
Canadian Tire
The Women's Auxiliary at The Hospital for Sick Children had a vision to improve the Play Park and in 2001, Canadian Tire generously provided the funding to make this dream come true.
The Canadian Tire Play Park, located on Main Street in Hospital, is a wonderful resource and safe haven for patients and their siblings. Canadian Tire renewed its sponsorship of the Park for five years and continues to be a valued partner to SickKids Foundation.
"This resource is critical for so many families," says Nancy Leppik, president, Women's Auxiliary. "More than 7,000 children visit each year. We are tremendously grateful for Canadian Tire's support."
Robert Naccarato Memorial Foundation
Robert Naccarato Memorial Foundation supports SickKids Foundation through an annual golf tournament. Tony Naccarato and his family created their organization in memory of their beloved son and brother. This fundraiser is a wonderful celebration that helps transform the lives of children and their families at SickKids and around world.
For the week of November 23, 2009
CIBC World Markets
SickKids is at the forefront of children's health care in Canada and around the world. It would not be possible without the ongoing support from friends like CIBC World Markets, who have been so generous over the years.
SickKids Foundation truly appreciates all that CIBC does to help the patients and families SickKids serves.
Marriott Hotels & Resorts Canada
For more than 25 years, Marriott Hotels & Resorts of Canada has been a proud sponsor of Children's Miracle Network and SickKids Foundation. Enthusiastic Marriott associates participate in the Marriott Pride program and organize several successful events throughout the year to help children in their community and around the world.
On November 19, 2009, Toronto Airport Marriott held its 8th annual Children's Miracle Network Gala in support of SickKids Foundation. Once again it raised the bar by featuring a special performance by Michael Burgess. Through various initiatives, Marriott properties have raised more than $735,000 for SickKids since becoming a Children's Miracle Network sponsor. Thank you Marriott for the incredible support!
For the week of November 16, 2009
Swiss Chalet
Since becoming a partner of Children's Miracle Network in 2003, Swiss Chalet has been helping kids from across the country. Miracles were on the menu last November when Swiss Chalet hosted its signature event, Miracle Kids Day. On this day, $1 was donated to SickKids Foundation for every Festive Special Dinner or Quarter Chicken Dinner sold in the South-Central Ontario region.
Since 2003, Swiss Chalet has contributed nearly $1 million to Children's Miracle Network. On behalf of SickKids Foundation, we'd like to give a big thanks to Swiss Chalet associates and customers for their continued support!
The W. Garfield Weston Foundation
For three generations, The W. Garfield Weston Foundation has maintained a family tradition of helping charitable organizations make a difference and enhance the quality of life for all Canadians. The foundation's past support helped build the Atrium and funded cutting-edge medical research.
This past year, SickKids received a trustee initiated grant to upgrade the aging outdoor holiday light display to a more energy efficient LED system. Thanks to generosity of The W. Garfield Weston Foundation, the illuminated display will continue to brighten the spirits of patients and families spending time in the Hospital over the holiday season, as well as the Toronto community at large.
For the week of November 9, 2009
Burger King Restaurants of Canada
Thank you Burger King Restaurants of Canada. For more than 17 years, Burger King Restaurants of Canada has been a dedicated supporter of paediatric research at SickKids. It has donated more than $2.3 million during that time. Through its ever-growing Toonie Bear fundraising campaign, Burger King raises more than $200,000 for SickKids every year. It also supports the Hospital through events such as Radiothon and the annual staff BBQ.
SickKids Foundation would like to thank Burger King, its employees and customers for their belief in SickKids and for helping improve the health and well-being of all children.
Lombard Canada Ltd.
In 2007, Lombard Canada Limited employees made a decision to put their time and energy into raising funds for SickKids Foundation. Since then, they have successfully run annual fundraising campaigns, including payroll deduction, online giving, innovative engagement activities and a matching corporate gift, to raise money for the Foundation's highest priority needs.
Over the past two years, more than $118,700 has been raised. These employee events build on the company's long-time support of SickKids Foundation, which includes the establishment of the hospital's first endowed academic chair, the Lombard Insurance Chair in Paediatric Research, currently held by Dr. Janet Rossant. Thank you Lombard Canada Ltd.!
For the week of November 2, 2009
Bunzl Canada
Bunzl Canada has been an exemplary corporate citizen whose dedication to b.r.a.i.n.child and SickKids Foundation is unwavering. John and Leanne Howlatt, Michelle Fletcher, the entire team at Bunzl and their supporters have made it their mission to help transform the lives of children and their families with brain tumours. They have fundraised through the Ripple of Hope Golf Tournament and, in the most recent years, through their unique event Blading for b.r.a.i.n.child.
For the week of October 26, 2009
FedEx
In Canada, pedestrian injuries are one of the leading causes of injury-related deaths for children 14 years of age and younger. Since 2001, FedEx Canada has supported Safe Kids Canada's pedestrian safety program, "Walk This Way." The program includes the distribution of community resources to build awareness as well as a grants program that enables organizations across Canada to address pedestrian safety issues in their communities.
As the world's largest express transportation company, FedEx places value on corporate responsibility and it is committed to safety both in the workplace and in the communities in which it operates. We thank FedEx for its ongoing support of Safe Kids Canada.
John Deere Foundation of Canada
John Deere Foundation of Canada has been helping communities since it was established in 1985. Through funding by the foundation, thousands of people in areas throughout Canada have benefited from the company's charitable support programs.
SickKids Foundation is grateful for John Deere Foundation's generous support of the Good 2 Go Transition Program's MyHealth Passports. Through its commitment, John Deere Foundation of Canada is helping to ensure our adolescent patients have the appropriate tools to transition successfully from SickKids into the adult health-care system and to assist them in successfully managing their health now and in the future.
"John Deere is proud to support SickKids," said Mike Blonski, President of John Deere Limited and Director of the John Deere Foundation of Canada. "The Good 2 Go transition program will help young patients lead healthy and productive lives."
For the week of October 19, 2009
Canadian National Railway
Launched in 2005 by Safe Kids Canada and the Canadian National Railway, Safe Crossing Week promotes safety practices at highway-railway crossings. In addition, it provides resources for teachers, parents and caregivers to teach elementary school children how to cross railway tracks safely.
Safety is one of the guiding principles at CN. Thank you CN employees for your ongoing commitment to Safe Kids Canada and for helping to keep our children safe.
Pizza Pizza
Pizza Pizza has been a longtime supporter of SickKids Foundation. In 2008, it brought its partnership to a new level by becoming an official sponsor of the Children's Miracle Network and supporting a number of other children's hospitals in several provinces.
This year, the spring Slices for Smiles campaign ran in April and generated more than $101,000 in proceeds. The fall campaign is happening the week of October 19 to 25, 2009. Pizza Pizza is donating a portion of the proceeds from the purchase of any medium size cheese or pepperoni pizza (in-store), to a local Children's Miracle Network hospital. In addition to pizza sales, stores will be selling paper icons.
We thank Pizza Pizza for its incredible enthusiasm and passion for helping kids get the very best health care. Visit your local Pizza Pizza and help make smiles happen for countless kids.
For the week of October 12, 2009
Costco Wholesale
Costco Wholesale is a tremendous supporter of SickKids Foundation through the Children's Miracle Network. By inspiring staff, engaging members and encouraging vendors to participate in the Miracle Month of May, Costco raises awareness and funds in support of the Foundation's highest priority needs.
Not only are Costco employees proud to sell paper icons to members at point-of-sale but their passion for helping sick children in their own community means that they are constantly looking for creative new ways to fundraise and challenge one another in doing so. Last year, more than half a million dollars was raised for SickKids. Thank you Costco Wholesale for supporting the Children's Miracle Network and SickKids!
Ferrari Maserati of Ontario
Ferrari Maserati of Ontario has proudly supported SickKids Foundation for the past 11 years, raising more than $1.6 million dollars. It continues to inspire children's dreams through its committed fundraising efforts.
For the week of October 5, 2009
Blockbuster Canada
Thanks to its enthusiastic employees and numerous fundraising initiatives, Blockbuster Canada continues to make miracles happen for kids. As a Children's Miracle Network partner since 1998, it has raised more than $4 million to date from movie icon sales, vendor programs and a highly successful golf tournament.
In 2008, Blockbuster Canada donated more than $200,000 to SickKids Foundation. On September 11, 2009, stores across Canada rallied together for kids at their first-ever, highly successful Walk the Block For Kids. Blockbuster continues to strive to raise as much awareness for Children's Miracle Network as possible with strong in-store fundraising programs. Thanks Blockbuster for putting kids first.
Honda Canada Foundation
Honda Canada created the Honda Canada Foundation (HCF) to give back to the communities in which its customers and associates live, work and play.
HCF is committed to enhancing the social well-being of Canadian communities through responsible investment in organizations that share its vision, values and focus on youth. HCF's goals are to help charitable organizations recognize and respond to the changing needs of the communities, and to invest in the people and charitable groups that make a difference.
At the heart of its charitable focus are HCF's core values: education, environment, engineering and safety. HCF uses these four areas as guiding principles in its charitable focus, on the belief that a healthy understanding of each area will help both individuals and communities flourish.
The Honda Canada Foundation is pleased to partner with Safe Kids Canada on initiatives that reinforce Pedestrian Safety and its commitment to safety education.
For the week of September 28, 2009
Intact Foundation
Intact Foundation is committed to supporting programs and activities that improve the quality of life and unlock the potential of Canadian youth.
In 2008, Intact Foundation made a three-year commitment to the Music Therapy program at SickKids in support of the ongoing delivery of the program and to help plan for future expansion. SickKids Foundation is grateful for Intact Foundation's investment, which helps raise the spirits of countless children who, at some time in their lives, will call SickKids home.
Webkinz Foundation
Webkinz Foundation knows the importance of play in a child's life, especially when the child is sick. It is proud to support children's health in Canada through its gifts to SickKids Foundation.
To help ensure patients at The Hospital for Sick Children have the opportunity to play and have fun, Webkinz Foundation has dedicated a playroom for patients to enjoy during their hospital stay. The Webkinz Playroom at SickKids is decorated with Webkinz-related art and graphics and features computers.
For the week of September 21, 2009
Leon's Furniture Ltd
Leon's Furniture Ltd is commemorating its 100th anniversary in business by giving back to the communities it supports. SickKids is one of 64 hospitals across Canada benefiting from in-kind furniture donations from Leon's. Through this generous donation, the Care by Parent Room in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) received a much needed face lift that will provide parents and patients with a comforting and soothing home like environment.
Leon's generosity will have a tremendous impact at SickKids and will help our children continue to make the most of their childhood.
Lindt & Sprungli Canada
SickKids Foundation would like to acknowledge Lindt & Sprungli Canada for its generosity in supporting SickKids Foundation through the annual Lindt Chocolate Masters Golf tournament. This tournament is organized by the company and its dedicated employees to raise much needed funds for the SickKids Priorities Fund.
The Lindt Chocolate Masters has raised more than $175,000 in two years. Thank you Lindt and Sprungli!
For the week of September 14, 2009
GlaxoSmithKline
GlaxoSmithKline has been a generous supporter of SickKids Foundation for nearly two decades. Its mission is to improve the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer.
In 2004, The GlaxoSmithKline Chair in Genetics and Genomics was formally established at SickKids with a commitment of $2 million. This endowed fund will support the research activities of the chair holders and help the SickKids Research Institute continue its groundbreaking work in unravelling the mysteries of the human genome.
Thank you for the ongoing support!
For the week of September 7, 2009
The Brewers Association of Canada
The Brewers Association of Canada (BAC) supports the Motherisk Alcohol and Substance Use Helpline. This helpline is the only national toll-free service that provides telephone counseling to women on the effects of alcohol and other substances during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
Launched with BAC support in November 1997 to help in the prevention of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, this specialized Motherisk helpline provides evidence-based information, confidential counseling and referrals to treatment and support services nationwide.
The BAC has also contributed to the launch of the Canadian Foundation on Fetal Alcohol Research, supported the Canadian Centre for Substance Abuse (CCSA) FASD Resource Centre and it is a key sponsor of the annual FACE Research Roundtable. We thank Brewers for its commitment and generous support.
For the week of August 31, 2009
Scrubs in the City
The Scrubs in the City 8th annual event was a spectacular evening with special live performances by Chantal Kreviazuk and the Cirq-U-L'air acrobats. Planning for next year has already begun and will take the cumulative total raised to more than $1.5 million. Thank you to all past committee members for making Scrubs one of the most successful and highly anticipated fundraising events.
For the week of August 24, 2009
Shania's Sunflower of Hope
This year marks the 4th anniversary of the Shania's Sunflower of Hope campaign in support of SickKids Foundation. Established by Shania Johnston more than four years ago, Shania's Sunflower of Hope continues to help provide grants for new and innovative research into neuroblastoma.
Through various grassroots fundraisers, including sidewalk jewelry sales and family fun fairs, Shania's Sunflower of Hope has raised more than $118,000 dollars to date.
SickKids Foundation is grateful to the Johnston family for continuing Shania's legacy and sharing in her unwavering spirit and courage. Thank you to the organizers, supporters and volunteers of Shania's Sunflower of Hope for their role in helping to make SickKids a world leader in neuroblastoma research.
For the week of August 17, 2009
Mattamy Tour de Bleu
Over the last four years, Mattamy Tour de Bleu cyclists have ridden countless kilometres in support of the work done at SickKids. Throughout its journey with SickKids Foundation, Mattamy Tour de Bleu has made possible the renovations of Marnie's Lounge and the completion of a $1-million endowment in Pain Management.
The riders' commitment to the Pain Management Centre has allowed the hospital to pursue its vision of becoming the best international paediatric centre in pain prevention and management. Thank you to Mattamy Tour de Bleu, its sponsors, family and friends that have made this wonderful gift to SickKids possible.
For the week of August 10, 2009
Dairy Queen
For more than 20 years, Dairy Queen and its network of passionate franchisees have raised funds to support The Hospital for Sick Children through its partnership with the Children's Miracle Network. In 2008, Dairy Queen raised more than $300,000 for SickKids Foundation through its annual one-day national event, Miracle Treat Day.
On Miracle Treat Day, proceeds from Blizzard® sales are donated to local children's hospitals. This year, Dairy Queen's 7th Annual Miracle Treat Day is on Thursday, August 13. Mark your calendars and indulge in a cool treat in support of SickKids Foundation!
Fight for Independence
James Estrin and Cailey Heaps Estrin have a special place in their hearts for The Hospital for Sick Children. Their six-week-old daughter, Mimi, unexpectedly and desperately needed the services of both the Trauma Unit and Critical Care Unit.
They decided to partner with an annual event, Fight for Independence, which supports SickKids Foundation and Nazareth House. They wanted to show their commitment to helping both women and children.
Fight For Independence 6 will take place on September 24 at the Steam Whistle Brewery. For more information, please visit: www.fightforindependence.com.
For the week of August 3, 2009
First Student Canada
First Student Canada has generously supported SickKids Foundation since 1997 as a Children's Miracle Network sponsor. Not only does First Student think about getting millions of kids to and from school each day, but they care about the many others who because of an illness or disability cannot ride to school with their friends. First Student supports SickKids through various employee and branch initiatives, including the successful "Survivor Bus," which is a weekend event where First Student employees across Ontario live on a bus for 48 hours to raise funds. First Student and its employees are truly committed and passionate about improving the health of children.
For the week of July 27, 2009
Heatwave Sports Inc.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Heatwave Sports Inc. volleyball tournament fundraisers in support of The James Fund at SickKids Foundation. Over the past 15 years, Heatwave Sports Inc. has remained committed to supporting the James Fund for Neuroblastoma Research, a fund that grants support for new and innovative research.
Through the generous and dedicated efforts of Heatwave Sport Inc. and the volleyball enthusiasts that participate year after year, the tournament has raised more than $1.3 million dollars. That number continues to rise. SickKids Foundation is thankful for the unwavering support of this wonderful group and its role in helping SickKids continue to be a global leader in neuroblastoma research.
Suncor
Suncor is a unique and sustainable energy company that is a proud supporter of SickKids Foundation. The Air for Charity program, proudly supported by Suncor, helps SickKids by donating a percentage of proceeds from tire inflation at Suncor Sunoco locations, which the Suncor Energy Foundation then matches. The dollars raised are used to support the highest priority needs of the Foundation, which helps The Hospital for Sick Children remain a world leader in children's health research, education and care.
For the week of July 20, 2009
Metro Ontario Inc.
Metro Ontario Inc. is a proud supporter of the highest priority needs and outreach efforts of Safe Kids Canada. Metro Ontario's charitable program, Growing Great Kids, is dedicated to the development and well-being of children. Its vision is to be the best community food retailer and as part of that promise, it makes an effort to give back to its communities. Metro Ontario helps support Safe Kids through Air Miles donations, community store events, barbecues and corporate events. Metro Ontario has also begun an employee payroll giving campaign, which raised more than $150,000 in its first year!
SmartCentres Annual Golf Classic
The long-standing contributions of the Annual SmartCentres Golf Classic have helped SickKids purchase state-of-the-art equipment and provide non-invasive and non-surgical corrections to complex cardiac conditions through its support of the Cardiac Diagnostic Imaging Unit. SickKids Foundation is grateful for the ongoing support of the SmartCentres Annual Golf Classic and its dedication to help shape the health of future generations of children.
For the week of July 13, 2009
BMO Financial Group
BMO Financial Group is a longtime supporter of SickKids Foundation. Dating back to the Foundation's first records, the BMO name can be found. Last year, BMO announced a $2-million gift to SickKids, which established the BMO Financial Group Chair in Cardiology. World-renowned SickKids clinician and researcher, Dr. Andrew Redington, was named the inaugural Chair holder. This Chair is endowed in perpetuity and will generate funds to allow further understanding of congenital heart disease and heart function for children today and in the future.
Starlight Children's Foundation
The Starlight Children's Foundation is a non-profit charitable organization that transforms the lives of seriously ill children and their families through imaginative programs that educate, uplift spirits, foster a sense of community and help alleviate the pain and fear of prolonged illness. Each year, the Starlight Children's Foundation provides support to The Hospital for Sick Children through many initiatives including emergency admit kits, the Starlight Room, donations of arts, crafts, games and mobile entertainment units and Starlight Fun Centers. The Starlight Fun Center is a mobile entertainment unit that has a flat screen monitor, DVD player and the latest Nintendo Game System, to date Starlight has placed 62 units at The Hospital for Sick Children. Thank you to Starlight Children's Foundation for more than a decade of generosity!
For the week of July 06, 2009
Jessica's Footprint: A Walk in the Park
This year marks the 4th Annual Jessica's Footprint: A Walk in the Park and a very special milestone for the Durigon family. They will celebrate having raised more than half million dollars in their first three years at their walk on July 11 in Guelph. Rob and Wendy Durigon started the walk in 2006 in memory of their daughter Jessica who lost her short life to a brain tumour. Through their support of the Dr. Peter Dirks' brain tumour research at SickKids and their enthusiasm and support of the Guelph community their continued efforts will make a huge impact in the lives of all children who suffer from the same illness.
Longo's Family Charitable Foundation
In 1998, the Longo's Family Charitable Foundation was created to promote fundraising in support of children's and women's charities, with a strong focus on health, while fostering a sense of family and community. On July 7, Longo's will celebrate its 20th Annual "Fore Kids' Sake" Charity Golf Tournament. Over the years, Longo's Family Charitable Foundation has generously funded key initiatives at SickKids to improve the health of children, which includes its continued support of a five-year commitment to the SickKids Priorities Fund and as a Diamond Sponsor of Jack's Lemonade Stand.
Thanks to Longo's Family Charitable Foundation, SickKids is able to give families hope of a brighter future for their children.
For the week of June 29, 2009
Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life
The Ethno-Cultural Knowledge Translation Program, created with generous support from Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life, is helping Safe Kids Canada develop culturally relevant injury prevention resources. These select resources will be accessible to Canada's diverse population to build capacity within communities to conduct programs and activities, which will help increase knowledge and awareness of how to prevent injuries.
Great-West Life is a leading Canadian insurer that, together with its subsidiaries London Life and Canada Life, serves the financial security needs of more than 12-million people across Canada. Through its national program for corporate citizenship, The Key to GivingTM, the companies contribute directly to hundreds of non-profit and charitable organizations across the country. On behalf of Safe Kids Canada, SickKids Foundation thanks Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life, an Imagine Caring Company, for its generosity in helping Safe Kids programs reach all Canadian children.
Prince Edward District Masons
SickKids Foundation gratefully acknowledges the Prince Edward District Masons who raised more than $75,000 to purchase IV Smart Pumps and ventilators for The Hospital for Sick Children. The Prince Edward District Masons undertook a challenge to fundraise for these essential pieces of equipment because of its longstanding commitment to fundraising and because of its desire to ensure SickKids has access to lifesaving and life-changing pieces of equipment. Thank you to the Prince Edward District Mason brethren for its outstanding contribution to SickKids Foundation.
For the week of June 29, 2009
Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life
The Ethno-Cultural Knowledge Translation Program, created with generous support from Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life, is helping Safe Kids Canada develop culturally relevant injury prevention resources. These select resources will be accessible to Canada's diverse population to build capacity within communities to conduct programs and activities, which will help increase knowledge and awareness of how to prevent injuries.
Great-West Life is a leading Canadian insurer that, together with its subsidiaries London Life and Canada Life, serves the financial security needs of more than 12-million people across Canada. Through its national program for corporate citizenship, The Key to GivingTM, the companies contribute directly to hundreds of non-profit and charitable organizations across the country. On behalf of Safe Kids Canada, SickKids Foundation thanks Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life, an Imagine Caring Company, for its generosity in helping Safe Kids programs reach all Canadian children.
Prince Edward District Masons
SickKids Foundation gratefully acknowledges the Prince Edward District Masons who raised more than $75,000 to purchase IV Smart Pumps and ventilators for The Hospital for Sick Children. The Prince Edward District Masons undertook a challenge to fundraise for these essential pieces of equipment because of its longstanding commitment to fundraising and because of its desire to ensure SickKids has access to lifesaving and life-changing pieces of equipment. Thank you to the Prince Edward District Mason brethren for its outstanding contribution to SickKids Foundation.
For the week of June 22, 2009
LIUNA Local 183
The Labourers International Union of North America Local 183 held its 3rd Charity Golf Tournament and celebrated a landmark of raising more than half a million dollars to date to support innovative research at SickKids. Local 183 is the largest construction local union in North America representing more than 28,000 construction workers and their families in the GTA. Its members are very philanthropic and are excited to have passed the halfway mark to its million-dollar commitment. With the continued support of the LIUNA Local 183 Innovative Research Endowment Fund, SickKids Research Institute continues to encourage new, "out-of-the-box" ideas that just might become the breakthroughs of the future.
TIM-BR MART
TIM-BR MART is a long-standing and generous donor of SickKids Foundation. It has raised more than $140,000 for the highest priorities fund at SickKids. The Timbrkids Children's Charity allows TIM-BR-MARTS Ltd. and TIM-BR MART Dealers across Canada to give back to the communities in which they do business. Because family values are so important to the people who own and work at TIM-BR MART, the entire focus of Timbrkids is on the health and well-being of children. Thank you TIM-BR MART for helping to build a strong SickKids.
For the week of June 15, 2009
OTIP
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the OTIP Charity Golf Classic in support of SickKids Foundation. Over the past 20 years, OTIP has remained committed to supporting the Memories of a Gentle Presence Bereavement program in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Through the generous and dedicated efforts of the OTIP committee and the golfers who participate year after year, the tournament has raised almost $600,000. SickKids Foundation is thankful for the unwavering support of this wonderful group.
Scotiabank
As Canada's most international bank, Scotiabank has a strong commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates in Canada and around the world. With its strong presence in Latin America and the Caribbean, Scotiabank has recognized and responded to the needs of children from underserved communities in these regions.
"We are thrilled to have Scotiabank on board," says Kamla Sharma, director, SickKids International. "Its support enhances our ability to care for more children through direct patient care, education and outreach programs."
Scotiabank has a long history of supporting SickKids. In 1997, Scotiabank established the Scotiabank Clinician Scientist Training Fund, an endowment that continues to support clinician-scientist trainees in oncology in perpetuity. Its support presently includes a $1-million commitment to the SickKids International Patient Program and sponsorship of two important events for the Herbie Fund - the Mistletoe Ball and Herbie Day.
For the week of June 08, 2009
RBC
This year marks the 22nd anniversary of the relationship between the employees of RBC and SickKids Foundation. To date, they have generously donated more than $2.4 million to SickKids. In addition, RBC Foundation has also committed $2 million to further much-needed training, research and outreach for paediatric mental health at SickKids. Each year, the RBC employee campaign concludes with a walk-a-thon that ends on the front lawn of the hospital. Please join us on June 24 at 6 p.m. to welcome the dedicated RBC walkers and cheer them on as they arrive. We thank RBC for its long-standing relationship with SickKids Foundation.
Walmart Canada
Walmart Canada is passionate about making a difference in the health and well-being of children. In partnership with the Children's Miracle Network, Walmart associates, vendors and customers enthusiastically raise funds to support the 12 paediatric hospitals across the country, touching the lives of 2.6 million children in Canada. Its many activities in this region to support SickKids includes selling paper icon balloons, barbeques, donating a percentage of sales of items from vendors such as Proctor & Gamble, and its largest event the Walmart Walk for Miracles, which will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2009. Believing that helping children is the right thing to do, Walmart and its passionate, energetic associates have shown incredible leadership in the community by donating more than $1.8 million to SickKids Foundation in 2008.
Walk with your family of friends on Sunday, June 14 for the 6th annual Walmart Walk for Miracles in support of SickKids Foundation, through its partnership with Children's Miracle Network. Starting at 8 a.m. enjoy a fun-filled day of activities and entertainment at Coronation Park (across from the Princess Gates) in Toronto. To show our SickKids united support for this event, visit www.walmartwalkformiracles.ca and donate to or join the SickKids Striders team.
For the week of May 25, 2009
Duchesnay Inc.
A Canadian research-based pharmaceutical company, Duchesnay Inc., of Laval, Quebec, is dedicated to the development of effective pharmacological solutions that are safe for pregnant women and their babies. A generous supporter of Motherisk research and training for over a decade, Duchesnay's latest donation supports the Motherisk Disease Management and Surveillance Program. Duchesnay is also the corporate sponsor of Motherisk's national NVP Helpline, a toll-free service that helps women throughout North America understand and cope with morning sickness. It is also the corporate sponsor for this week's Motherisk Update 2009: Preparing for Pregnancy - Selected Topics in Preconception Health.
The ConKer Ride
Frank Fusillo watched as a friend and a friend's daughter underwent treatment for cancer. He was so moved by their bravery that he organized Friends For A Cure. This group of supportive friends, led by Frank, rallied together to organize a motorcycle ride from Mississauga to Niagara and back, while raising critical funds for cancer research. In 2008, Friends For A Cure held The ConKer Ride, which raised more than $200,000 to support research at Princess Margaret Hospital and SickKids. The $102,000 donated to SickKids is currently being used to fund a leukemia research project to study the relapse of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. SickKids Foundation is excited that Friends For A Cure will be continuing its support again in 2009 with The ConKer Ride scheduled for August 15.
For the week of May 18, 2009
Sam's Day
Sam's Day is a family fun day established by the Lack family of Burlington, Ont., which commemorates their son's birthday, a poignant milestone in Sam's ongoing journey to wellness after battling neuroblastoma. Nearly 700 people and media attend the event annually. Sam's Day aims to build awareness of this rare but deadly form of childhood cancer, and raises funds for The James Fund, which supports researchers involved in the leading-edge investigation of new therapies for the treatment of neuroblastoma. Over the past four years, Sam's Day has raised more than $130,000 for The James Fund to further the work of the Sam Lack Drug Discovery Research Project at SickKids. This year's Sam's Day Rock N' Bowl event is being held in Burlington on Saturday June 6. For more information please visit www.samsday.org.
Mito March For Kirkland
Kirkland Kilbride may have lost his battle with mitochondrial disease but despite the challenges he faced every day of his life, Kirkland was an inspiration to many. The passion and determination of his family to help conquer his fatal disease through funding research at SickKids has had a significant impact. Through their event Mito March For Kirkland more than $164,000 has been donated to metabolic research at SickKids, resulting in innovative, new genetic testing previously not available. Recent funds raised through the walk are being used to conduct a study aimed at identifying the gene mutation responsible for complex one deficiency; the mitochondrial disorder that affected Kirkland's cells. SickKids Foundation appreciates the Kilbride family's efforts, which offers hope to all families with Mito children around the world that someday a cure may be found.
For the week of May 11, 2009
Central Fairbank Lumber
Central Fairbank Lumber is a key supporter of SickKids Foundation and is committed to making a difference in the lives of Canadian families. Central Fairbank Lumber has generously supported top priority needs at SickKids to help improve the quality of life for children at the hospital and to benefit children and their families across Canada.
Savvymom.ca
Savvymom.ca and its amazing readers held another successful holiday fundraising campaign in 2008 to support the SickKids bed & stretcher campaign. Through the generosity of its subscribers, SickKids was able to purchase 43 new crib mattresses that will provide patients with greater comfort. This was Savvymom.ca's second annual holiday fundraising campaign. In 2007, the donations collected helped purchase a transport incubator. Savvymom.ca founders Sarah and Minnow also use their e-newsletter to raise awareness of children's health and safety information and run a regular section on ways their readers can support SickKids Foundation through fundraising activities. SickKids Foundation is grateful for Savvymom.ca's support, especially in the ever-growing electronic world.
For the week of May 4, 2009
Meagan's Walk: Creating a Circle of Hope
Meagan's Walk: Creating a Circle of Hope is a group that is well known for their signature event, a walk on Mother's Day that ends in a human chain surrounding SickKids with a "hug." The hug is a symbol of strength and support for all the children, mothers and families fighting illness at SickKids, across Canada and around the world. Everyone involved in Meagan's Walk is dedicated to fundraise in support of paediatric brain tumour research in memory of Meagan Bebenek. This phenomenal event has raised more than $1.4 million since it inception in 2001.
For the week of April 27, 2009
Adam's Dream Fund
Adam's Dream Fund was established by the Prusznowski family, in loving memory of their son Adam Prusznowski, who died of cancer at eight years old in 1993. Since the fund began in 1996, the family has raised more than $1.5 million to support two very special programs at SickKids: paediatric oncology (cancer) research and The Therapeutic Clown Program. When Adam was unable to verbalize his feelings at the height of his illness, the therapeutic clowns came and lifted his spirits. These colourful angels provide respite where family and friends cannot. By funding paediatric cancer research, the family hopes to eventually spare families the pain and loss of their precious children. SickKids Foundation wishes to extend its deepest gratitude to Adam's family and congratulate them as they celebrate the 12th Annual Dinner and Auction in May 2009.
Foresters
Since 1984, Foresters, a life insurance organization inspired by helping children and families, has partnered with SickKids Foundation as the presenting sponsor of the Annual SickKids Radiothon. With the support of Foresters, the Radiothon has become the most successful in North America, raising more than $4 million last year. Foresters has been a committed contributor to SickKids Foundation and has made a remarkable impact by investing in local communities and promoting volunteerism.
Foresters is also a long-term supporter of Children's Miracle Network and is the founding sponsor and international underwriter of the Radiothon program in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Foresters support helps pay for the costs of radiothons so all funds raised through SickKids and other radiothons, stay in the local community.
"Foresters is very proud to be a longtime supporter of SickKids and the presenting sponsor of the annual SickKids Radiothon," says George Mohacsi, Foresters President and CEO. "Our mission is to improve the well-being of families. What a better way to do this than to ensure all children have access to the quality, specialized health care they need and deserve. By helping raise much-needed funds for the hospital, SickKids can continue to provide the best of care to our children, our future."
For the week of April 20, 2009
Hydro One Employees' & Pensioners' Charity Trust
Hydro One Employees' & Pensioners' Charity Trust is a key supporter of SickKids Foundation and is committed to help build strong, healthy communities where its customers and employees live and work. Through its inspiring staff and employee fundraising efforts, Hydro One Employees' & Pensioners' Charity Trust has helped raise funds towards a variety of hospital programs benefitting children and their families across Canada.
Pizza Pizza
Pizza Pizza has been a longtime supporter of SickKids Foundation. In 2008, it brought its partnership to a new level by becoming an official sponsor of the Children's Miracle Network to support not only SickKids, but other children's hospitals in Quebec and Ontario too. Through corporate donation programs and its two Cheese for Charity days, Pizza Pizza has raised more than $100,000 in support of the Children's Miracle Network. Please visit a Pizza Pizza location during the week of April 27, 2009, for its semi-annual Cheese for Charity campaign. Purchase a paper balloon icon to support local children's hospitals, including SickKids. We thank Pizza Pizza for its incredible enthusiasm and passion for helping kids here in the Greater Toronto Area and across the country.
For the week of April 13, 2009
Mead Johnson Nutrition
The relationship between Mead Johnson Nutrition and The Hospital for Sick Children dates back to the 1930s when Mead Johnson began producing and marketing Pablum, a vitamin and mineral-enriched baby cereal and an invention of SickKids researchers. Nearly 80 years later, Mead Johnson continues to support excellence in research and education at SickKids, specifically in the areas of Motherisk and nutrition.
The mission of Mead Johnson is to create nutritional brands and products trusted to give infants and children the best start in life. We thank Mead Johnson for its outstanding commitment to children's health and SickKids.
The Kids' Health Links Foundation
The Kids' Health Links Foundation's mission is to use technology to alleviate the stress, isolation and loneliness of children in medical care, and keep them connected with their family, friends and school community.
By supporting the Epilepsy Classroom at the hospital, the foundation is helping SickKids cater to the individual learning needs of children with intractable epilepsy, while helping them achieve their academic and personal goals.
For the week of April 6, 2009
Dufferin Concrete
Dufferin Concrete is a key supporter of SickKids Foundation and is committed to making a difference in the lives of Canadian families. Through its creative approach and generous support, Dufferin Concrete has helped raise funds for the Foundation's top priorities at the hospital, improved the quality of life for children at the hospital and benefitted children and their families across Canada.
The Black Family Foundation
The generosity of the Black Family Foundation has had a lasting impact on the science conducted at SickKids, helping to launch innovative research every year. The Black Family Endowment for Scientific Innovation Fund, established by the Black Foundation, supports projects at the leading edge of paediatric research. The Black Foundation believes, "by providing investigators with the tools, people and resources to launch a successful endeavour, [SickKids can successfully] support the recruitment and retention of leading scientists and clinician-scientists." SickKids Foundation is grateful for a commitment that helps keep the hospital and Research Institute on the cutting edge.
For the week of March 26, 2009
PartyLite
PartyLite has been a passionate supporter of SickKids Foundation through Children's Miracle Network since 1996. Through national promotions, events and employee payroll deductions, PartyLite consultants have raised more than $650,000 to support research and highest priority needs at SickKids. Thank you PartyLite consultants and leaders for your incredible support!
For the week of March 16, 2009
Bell Canada
Bell Canada has been supporting SickKids for more than two decades. It has shown its support in a multitude of ways including Telehomecare, the CDIU and more recently through a $10-million pledge to the Emergency Department. To help raise awareness and funds for SickKids, Bell hosts the annual Bell Celebrity Gala, which will take place on October 8, 2009. Thanks to Bell, Phase I of the emergency renovations is now completed with Phase II about to start. Thank you, Bell Canada, for making this possible!
For the week of March 9, 2009
Long & McQuade
Long & McQuade is an active and proud supporter of SickKids Foundation.
Last year, Long and McQuade decided to increase their support by establishing the Long & McQuade Music Therapy Endowment Fund. This fund will ensure music continues to be an integral part of our patients' lives.
Thank you Long & McQuade for your continued support!
For the week of March 2, 2009
IBM
The IBM Employees' Charitable Fund is a longstanding tradition at IBM that exemplifies one of its values - "Innovation that matters for the world." For more than 20 years, IBM Employees and IBM's Matching Grants program have been dedicated to funding the highest priority needs at SickKids. Thank you IBM!
For the week of February 23, 2009
Life For Luke
Lucy and Enio Liegghio founded Life For Luke in 2001 in the hopes of saving their precious son Luke who was diagnosed with Niemann-Pick Type C (NPC). Their mission was simple: they needed to find a cure for the disease. Children with NPC rarely survive past their teenage years. Sadly, Luke lost his battle to NPC in June 2005. Life for Luke has raised in excess of $660,000 which has helped launch various research initiatives at SickKids and other NPC research foundations. SickKids Foundation is grateful to the Liegghio family for their continued support and their efforts to, "Paint a path to a brighter future for NPC children," and their families battling this disease.
For the week of February 16, 2009
Shoppers Drug Mart
Over the years, Shoppers Drug Mart has participated in a number of events and sponsorships for SickKids. Shoppers Drug Mart proudly established The Harold J. Hoffman/Shoppers Drug Mart Chair in Paediatric Neurosurgery and, each year, collects donations from the Shoppers Drug Mart Tree of Life fundraising campaign. The chair holders have pushed the boundaries of research, which has benefited many children affected by neurological conditions.
As a leader in advancing children's health, we salute Shoppers Drug Mart and would like to express our sincere gratitude for their ongoing support.
For the week of February 9, 2009
LCBO
LCBO raises funds throughout the year for charities across Ontario. During the month of December, more than 700 LCBO stores in the Greater Toronto Area and surrounding areas fundraise for SickKids Foundation through donation boxes and a top-up promotion at the cash register. We thank LCBO and its employees who have proudly taken extra steps to encourage customers in supporting the world-renowned work done at SickKids.
For the week of February 2, 2009
G4S Security Services
G4S Security Services (Canada) Ltd. is a key supporter of SickKids Foundation and committed to making a difference in the lives of Canadian families. Through its inspiring staff and employee fundraising efforts, G4S has helped raise funds towards the hospital's top priorities, which benefit children and their families across Canada.
For the week of January 26, 2009
Brandan's Eye Research Fund
For more than five years, Rosemary and James Cescolini have been raising money through Brandan's Eye Research Fund to support paediatric glaucoma and cataract research at SickKids. Their continued efforts to eradicate childhood vision disorders have resulted in donations totaling more than $800,000. Research funded by Brandan's Eye Research Fund has helped physicians better understand why eye diseases occur, how to treat them optimally and how best to educate and involve families in the care of their children. Its motto is "Seeing is Believing" and with continued efforts it hopes to give more children the gift of sight for life.
For the week of January 19, 2009
Burger King
A proud partner of SickKids Foundation for more than 16 years, Burger King Restaurants of Canada Inc. is a passionate supporter of paediatric research and highest priority needs at SickKids. Burger King continues to invest in its commitment to SickKids Foundation each year by increasing its donation to children's health. We thank Burger King for its belief in SickKids and for helping us in our vital role to improve the health and well-being of all children.
Carpenter's Union, Central Ontario Regional Council
Carpenters' Union, Central Ontario Regional Council has been a long-standing partner of SickKids Foundation. Steadfast in their commitment to the community and the families of Ontario, Central Ontario Regional Council and affiliated unions, have for many years funded various hospital projects and programs at SickKids. More recently, this Union made an exceptional commitment of $150,000 to support the SickKids Operating Suites Redevelopment Project. The facility will be home to new state-of-the-art operating suites, a redesigned surgical day care unit and satellite, as well as a pre-operative clinic. The enhancements will dramatically improve the ability to provide care to thousands of children and their families.
For the week of January 12, 2009
Astellas Pharma
For many years, Astellas Pharma Canada has shown its commitment to education in the area of paediatric dermatology. The company's generosity has supported the Dr. Bernice Krafchik Astellas Pharma Canada Fellowship in the Dermatology department at SickKids for the past four years. Thanks to the support of Astellas, the department has been able to train dermatologists from around the world who return to their homes to provide specialized care and service to their communities. We thank Astellas Pharma Canada for its ongoing support of SickKids.
For the week of January 5, 2009
Home Hardware
Since 2002, SickKids Foundation has been proud to be one of Home Hardware's national charitable partners. Home Hardware and its dealers raise funds through local fundraising events, calendar sales and other initiatives all in support of the world-renowned research at SickKids.
Thanks to its contributions, world-class research continues to lead to discoveries, which mean higher survival rates and better care for children in Canada and around the world.