It's about Kids Helping Kids

10th Annual Toronto's Ronald McDonald House Toddle for Tots Raises Money for Kids

TORONTO, ON, September 27, 2003 - This year marked the 10th Anniversary of Toddle for Tots, the signature fundraising event for Toronto's Ronald McDonald House. Presented by Subaru Canada, Inc., Toddle for Tots was held at the Toronto Zoo. Approximately 1,200 children and their families attended this one-day event and raised funds for Toronto's Ronald McDonald House, a "home away from home" for out-of-town families whose children are receiving specialized medical care in Toronto for serious illnesses.

"Now in its tenth year, Toddle for Tots has become known as one of the most exciting and fun-filled family fundraising events in Toronto," said Lori Marks, Volunteer Chair, Toddle for Tots. "Toronto's Ronald McDonald House is independently owned and operated and must raise a minimum of 1.4 million dollars per year just to cover operating costs. We are inspired by the families and volunteers that joined us today despite the inclement weather and we are so appreciative of the support we've received from the community which will allow us to fund the much-needed programs and services to meet the ever-growing needs of the families who stay with us."

Children who participated in Toddle for Tots collected pledges and went on a "fundraising safari" through the Toronto Zoo with their Toddle Safari Maps, spotting animals at a number of animal stations, collecting stickers, playing games and enjoying live entertainment. Every child received a Toddle Bag filled with fun items, a participant ribbon and a water bottle. Every child also enjoyed a complimentary lunch.

Children who took part in the Safari were encouraged to raise pledges prior to the day of the event. Children who raised $30 in pledges received a Toddle T-shirt, for collecting $60 children received a Toddle hat and a Toddle T-shirt and for children who raised $120 or more in pledges, they received a Toddle lunch bag, a Toddle hat and a Toddle T-shirt. Children who raised $60 or more became members of the Safari Club and were entered in a draw to win one of four great prizes, including a Remote Control Subaru Rally Car, a Harry Potter Prize Pack, one of five $100 Toys "R" Us Gift Cards or an Oxygen King Cruiser Scooter. Children who raised $120 or more were also entered into a draw to win a Microsoft Xbox and game library.

"Subaru Canada, Inc. is proud to be a continued supporter of Toddle for Tots," said Elaine Griffin, Manager of Public Relations, Subaru Canada. "It was an enjoyable day for children and parents visiting the Toronto Zoo, and assisted in raising money to help the children and their families staying at Toronto's Ronald McDonald House. This event truly made a difference in these families' lives."

Participants and supporters can drop off or mail their pledges and donations to Toronto's Ronald McDonald House located at 26 Gerrard Street East, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1G3 or call the House at 416-977-0458.

About Toronto's Ronald McDonald House
Toronto's Ronald McDonald House is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has been providing comfortable and affordable accommodation since 1981 for out-of-town families with seriously ill children. More than just offering accommodations, the House also runs support programs and activities to help families through a difficult time. Headed by a volunteer Board of Directors, the House has a small, dedicated staff and hundreds of committed volunteers who manage its day-to-day operations. In order to keep its doors open to families in need, it relies on the support of caring corporations, individuals and foundations.

For more information please contact:
Sylvia Sicuso/Katherine Bruni
APEX Public Relations
(416) 924-4442 ext 255/244

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