The revitalized Charity of Hope Brantford recently hosted their first “Jazz For Lovers” fundraising event and presented Brant Food For Thought with a donation of $5,000 in support of student nutrition programs. An enjoyable evening was had by all, with live jazz music and a sumptuous three-course meal prepared by Chef Tracy Winkworth of Liaison College South Coast and Mercasa Banquet Services, with foods sponsored by Strodes BBQ & Deli, Petit Gourmet Food Company and Sweet Bakery. The event raised funds to help bring hope and joy to the children and youth of this community.
Gisèle Budgell, Program Director of Brant Food For Thought, was on hand for the evening and to attend the cheque presentation by the organizing committee. “We are honoured to receive this generous donation in support of student nutrition programs,” says Budgell. “Our children deserve the nutrition they need to succeed in school and work to their full potential. Thank you for bringing hope to our greatest resource–our children and youth.”
Tom Mercante, Culinary Arts Teacher at St. John’s College and Chair of the Brantford Charity of Hope (pictured above), was quick to recommend Brant Food For Thought as the recipient charity. He along with his students help facilitate the “Fuel For School” breakfast program at the high school for over 300 students three mornings a week. For the past six years, Mercante and his dedicated culinary students have been hands on with Brant Food For Thought’s annual charity breakfast event in May, and this year will be no exception.
The Charity of Hope motto is clear–“Where there’s hope, there’s joy…”
As a non-profit organization, they are dedicated to giving hope to children and youth in need across Canada. Since 1999, the Charity of Hope has brought joy and hope to hundreds of children, youth and their families. Together, with their partners, they have raised over one million dollars for those in need.
Charity of Hope‘s mission is three-fold:
- To generate resources through fundraising initiatives and community partnerships, and use those funds to make an impact in the lives of children.
- To attract volunteers and partners who are passionate about helping children to achieve their hopes, dreams and full potential.
- To transform communities through helping children, youth and their families who need support.
Brant Food For Thought would also like to thank all the guests in attendance and recognize the many corporate and event sponsors responsible for making this event a great success: Scotiabank, CARSTAR Brantford, Hub International, Brantford Nissan and Discount Car & Truck Rental.