Generous Torontonians raise $1.7 million at the city's longest standing gala in support of the Children's Aid Foundation

Guests at the 28^th Annual Teddy Bear show their support for Canada's most vulnerable children

TORONTO, Nov. 2, 2014 /CNW/ - Last night, the halls of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre were transformed into the piazzas of Italy, where guests were treated to an Italian-themed evening of decadence and splendor at the 28^th Annual Teddy Bear Affair in support of the Children's Aid Foundation. With event co-hosts Rick Campanelli and Natasha Gargiulo, generous Torontonians helped raise $1.7 million, which will be used to improve the lives of Canada's abused and neglected children and young adults currently or formerly living in the child welfare system.

"We are so fortunate to have the wonderful support of Torontonians and dedicated donors who have so passionately raised over $25 million during the Teddy Bear Affair's 28-year history and who recognize that there are thousands of neglected children and youth out there who so desperately need their help," said Valerie McMurtry, President and CEO, Children's Aid Foundation. "The funds raised at this year's Teddy Bear Affair will continue to make a direct impact on a child's life and help provide them with what every child deserves - a brighter future."

The Teddy Bear Affair is Toronto's longest running galas and last evening's sold-out event was attended by over 1,200 guests, including many of Toronto's influential business and community leaders. Served this year as honorary chairs were John and Rita Gagliano, long-time supporters and volunteers of the Children's Aid Foundation, both personally and professionally through St. Joseph Communications.

Italian artists, an Italian-inspired fountain and a delicious authentic Italian menu designed by celebrity chef Fabio Viviani brought the sights and tastes of Italy to guests, as they danced the night away to the sounds of the Montreal Rhapsody Orchestra. Sponsored by CGI and CIBC, the evening included a silent and live auction and raffle featuring highly coveted items, experiences and prizing, including three exquisite jewelry pieces provided by Mindham Fine Jewelry.

Funds raised at this year's gala will help address the needs of Canada's most vulnerable children and young people. There are 76,000 kids and teens across Canada living in the child welfare system, in foster homes or residential facilities. The parents of these kids are not able to care for them, and these kids have suffered from abuse, neglect, abandonment or poverty. Thousands more are living in unstable homes and are at risk of coming into care.

The Children's Aid Foundation has a mission to improve the lives of young people involved in the child welfare system by providing access to resources, programs and services they need in order to heal, rebuild their self-esteem, and find the path to a brighter future. Thanks to the generosity of private donors – individuals, corporations and foundations, the Children's Aid Foundation works with child welfare community organizations across Canada to provide funding in the areas of prevention, education, enrichment, healing and recovery. To learn more, visit www.cafdn.org

Patron sponsors:

CGI

CIBC

SOURCE: Children's Aid Foundation

Lisa Lipkin, Lisa Lipkin Communications, [email protected], 416-988-4189