Home’s residents raise $1,000 for Haitian relief efforts
Kensington Health Centre encouraging homes to donate to fund
Tuesday January 19, 2010 -- Deron Hamel
Inspired by its residents’ efforts to raise money to help people in Haiti in the wake of the Jan. 12 earthquake that caused extensive damage and claimed thousands of lives on the Caribbean island, Kensington Health Centre is encouraging other long-term care homes to follow suit.

Following the earthquake, which measured 7.0 on the Richter scale, Kathy Lashley, Kensington Health Centre’s director of client services, asked staff members and resident council what could be done to help.

The north building’s residents’ council immediately responded by pledging $500. Hugh Jackson, president of the north building’s residents’ council, then asked the south building’s residents’ council to match the donation — which it did.

“I think most everyone has been reduced to tears by the images we are seeing,” says Jackson.

The $1,000 that has been raised is being sent to International Child Care, a non-profit organization benefitting Haitian children.

The Toronto long-term care home is continuing to raise money for relief in Haiti, and is hoping other long-term care homes will join the effort.

“Kensington would like to encourage and challenge other long-term care homes to take up the cause,” says Erin Wilson, the home’s life enrichment supervisor.

When Kensington Health Centre’s president and CEO Brian McFarlane heard about residents’ and staff members’ commitment to the cause he was pleased with everyone’s generosity.

“Our thanks go out to the residents and staff members for showing us the true meaning of compassion and the wonderful spirit that lives within Kensington Health Centre,” he says in a written statement.

To find out more about International Child Care, or to make a donation, please visit the organization’s website.

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