Toronto Meets the challenge of supporting seniors at the 19th annual Toronto
Challenge presented by MonsterMortgage.ca

TORONTO, June 13 /CNW/ - Thousands of enthusiastic Torontonians of all ages came together at Metro Hall today to take part in the 19th annual Toronto Challenge presented by MonsterMortgage.ca. Walkers and runners participated in the MonsterMortgage.ca 5k run, Nissan Canada Foundation 5k walk and a 1k fun walk to raise money to enhance the quality of life for seniors.

"The Toronto Challenge presented by MonsterMortgage.ca is the premier fundraising event for seniors in Toronto. It benefits residents in long-term care homes as well as seniors who receive services from community agencies," said Sandra Pitters, General Manager, Toronto Long-Term Care Homes and Services. "It's wonderful to see Torontonians show their spirit and support our growing senior community."

Held annually in June (Seniors Month in Ontario), the Toronto Challenge, presented by MonsterMortgage.ca, raises funds that go directly to non-profit organizations in support of seniors and those living in long-term care homes, including the City's own long-term care homes and community based programs. The funds go a long way in enhancing seniors' quality of life by supporting community outings for residents of long-term care homes, recreation and entertainment activities, large print books and so much more.

"This is a fabulous event that families can participate in together - it's fun for all ages and is a great way to celebrate a healthy lifestyle while showing your support for seniors across our amazing city," said Nick Ametrano, Vice-President, MonsterMortgage.ca.

More than 150 volunteers were on hand to provide refreshments and assist runners and walkers. Participants of every age received a t-shirt, a ribbon upon completion of their event while spirits were kept lively with an aerobic warm-up and the chance to win prizes. The fastest male and female in nine different age categories were honoured, while the Students Supporting Seniors award went to Bishop Allen Academy for the largest number of youth participants. Dixon Hall was honoured for having the most participants. Organizers hope to raise even more than the $400,000 in funds raised last year.

Next year the Toronto Challenge will celebrate its 20th year and will take place on Sunday, June 12, 2011.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. It is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and most creative cities in North America. Toronto has won numerous awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering public services. Toronto's government is dedicated to prosperity, opportunity and liveability for all its residents. For information about non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Visit our website at www.toronto.ca

For further information: Media contact: James Buttivant, Communications and Marketing Consultant, City of Toronto, 416-565-4743, [email protected]