February the 11th, the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons, CFPDP, celebrated its 39th annual Great Valentine Gala in support of all Canadians who live with disability. In fact, over almost 4 decades, this annual fundraiser has generated more than $35 million dollars funding many necessary programs.
Throughout the evening, long-time emcee Suhana Meharchand helped salute several corporations and individuals who truly lead by example. In particular, remembering the Hon. David C. Onley who passed just weeks before the gala. It is quite amazing that on the evening of February 11, 1985 this was to be a one time event, but thanks to Founder, the Hon. Vim Kochhar, goals were set high to build affordable and specially designed housing for people deaf, blind or with a disability. Today there are over 50 members on a wait list for a new home nearing completion in Etobicoke.
That brings us to a special moment during the gala when a $100,000 cheque was presented to The Canadian Helen Keller Centre: Canada’s first training facility for the deaf-blind. There is so much more to say about the work being done. To find out visit; www. cfpdp.com Our thanks to Christine Payne of the Awards Commitee for the invitation to attend.
