The annual RBC Race for the Kids has achieved a remarkable milestone by raising more than $528,700 to support youth mental health services at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO).
CHEO Foundation President and CEO, Steve Read, emphasized the significance of this event as one of CHEO’s most substantial and crucial fundraisers. “The RBC Race for the Kids is the way that we fund the services that we provide to kids and families at CHEO who come looking for help with a variety of mental health issues,” Read explained. “This event allows us to provide the services that they need.”
This year’s race surpassed expectations, with a total fundraising amount of $528,700. Over the seven years this event has been held, it has collectively generated more than $2 million in support of youth mental health services at CHEO.
CTV News at Six anchors, Graham Richardson and Patricia Boal, served as emcees for the event and expressed their enthusiasm for the significant contribution it makes to the community.
“This is a brilliant day; this is a huge fundraiser every year. Everyone comes out and has a blast, runs 10k, 5k, or 2k, and they raise money for youth mental health for CHEO,” Boal remarked.
Richardson added, “It’s a record year, and it’s one of the great things to have back post-pandemic because it is such a huge part of the community. A big supporter of CHEO every year, one of their biggest fundraisers, and the turnout and the weather have just been absolutely fantastic.”
Steve Read stressed that the funds generated from the RBC Race for the Kids will continue to have an immense impact at CHEO and throughout the community.
Marjolaine Hudon, Race Chair and Regional President of Personal and Commercial Banking at RBC, highlighted the critical importance of providing assistance to youth facing mental health challenges. “Seeing so many colleagues, families, corporate teams, and friends come together to support youth in our community, year after year, is truly inspiring,” Hudon stated in a news release.
The funds raised through this event will remain within the local community and play a vital role in equipping CHEO with the necessary tools to address the mental health needs of children and youth, including the 1Call1Click.ca program.
