- TD's annual fundraising campaign for Opération Enfant Soleil asks Quebecers to make regular charitable giving a family affair-

MONTREAL, Dec. 8 /CNW Telbec/ - 'Tis the season of giving and local children gathered at the Saint-Jacques branch of TD Canada Trust to show that a toonie can make a big difference for a sick child in their community. Parents have the chance to teach their children how they can put compassion into action during TD's fundraising campaign for local Children's Miracle Network member hospitals nationwide, including Opération Enfant Soleil in Quebec.

During this annual campaign TD is encouraging customers and employees to register for automated monthly donations to support the children's hospital in their region and TD will match every toonie donated to Children's Miracle Network up to $1 million.

"TD has been a long time supporter of Opération Enfant Soleil, helping to fund life-saving equipment, patient services, and medical research," says Christine Marchildon, Senior Vice President, Quebec Region, TD Canada Trust. "The holiday season presents an ideal opportunity for families to discuss charitable giving with their children and how their donations throughout the year can add up to make a big difference."

Paul Lelièvre, Vice President, Metro District West, Quebec Region, TD Canada Trust agrees that the holidays are a perfect time for kids to learn about charitable donations and family money management. "When charitable giving is part of the family's financial plan, children learn to embrace the spirit of giving year-round," says Lelièvre. "Building regular donations into the family budget helps children understand the importance of giving to others and that is a powerful life lesson."

The difference a toonie can make

Gabriel Desjardins Tessier, now seven, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a dangerous and rare blood cancer, when he was only five years-old. Today he has recovered, is doing much better and is helping other sick children. "I would like to thank the TD team and the people who will make donations. I was really sick and can tell you that this help is very important to kids, because it gives us courage," said Gabriel.

"Since 1996, Opération Enfant Soleil has been fortunate enough to count on the support of TD, who to date has given $1.2 million in Quebec alone. The regular donations we receive give our organization stability and allow us to collect a considerable sum that will make a real difference in the recovery of sick children. Acquiring cutting edge technologies and developing spaces adapted to the needs of children and their families will allow them to benefit from a higher quality of life during their hospital stay," says David Archambault, Director, Partner Relations, Opération Enfant Soleil.

A two dollar donation may not seem like a lot, but over time those toonies can add up to spectacular results. Last year alone, TD customers and employees helped raise $4.8 million for Children's Miracle Network hospitals across Canada and more than $37 million since 1996.

How to donate

TD Canada Trust Internet banking customers can establish automated monthly donations directly by logging into EasyWeb and clicking on "Special Requests" followed by "Make a Donation" from the menu on the left hand side of the screen. Automated monthly donations can also be set up by visiting any TD Canada Trust branch.

About Opération Enfant Soleil

Opération Enfant Soleil is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1988 to raise funds for the development of high-quality paediatrics and to contribute to social health projects for all the children in Quebec.