Toronto Caribbean Newspaper brings TCCF to the larger community

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

As Trish and I entered the room, I was instantly taken back to my Grandma’s kitchen; there is something about Caribbean cooking, regardless of the island that reminds me about being a child, and some of the pleasant memories that comes with those thoughts. Toronto Caribbean Newspaper had been invited to The 19^th Annual Angel Gala, which was held on Saturday, October 12^th, 2019. Although it was cold, the building was filled with warmth as the community gathered to support The Caribbean Children’s Foundation.

TCCF has now been placed in the international arena because of its collaborative efforts with The Hospital for Sick Children to bring aid to children in the Caribbean who need specialized medical treatments to save their lives. This year alone, TCCF donated $50,000 to the Herbie Foundation; $24,500 to Sick Kids Hospital and approximately $30,000 to ICHF to pay for surgeries. What is most remarkable about this feat is that these outstanding achievements have all been accomplished with a relatively small donor base. Their work with The Hospital for Sick Kids has allowed them to assist with over 270 children since 2000.

The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper has maintained active involvement with TCCF, but this year they took it further by personally inviting community advertisers to join them at the 19^th annual Angel Gala. When Trish and I arrived, most of our guests were already there. I was introduced to incredible individuals that have actively taken part in assisting the community expand our horizons. I playfully greeted Linden and Diane King, no strangers to the Caribbean community as you will find them both actively working and supporting organizations all across the great city of Toronto. It was their first year there, and they actively participated in the night’s events, including the times in which we were able to wuk up our waist.

I was introduced to two lovely souls: Zvika Shluper Managing Partner at OZ Capital, and his wife Romina Shluper owner of Inner G Fitness. They currently advertise with the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, and they had personally approached Trish about becoming more active partners in the Caribbean community. On Saturday, they got a first-hand experience of the Caribbean culture, and shared with us their own playful adventures in the Caribbean.

Finally, I was introduced to Puneet Aujla from Brampton Crematorium; he had arrived later in the evening and apologized profusely about not being able to make it there earlier. Although business had not allowed him to arrive earlier, Puneet brought his youthful energy to the night, and took some time to enjoy the evening’s festivities.

As we sat together, we broke bread and listened to the great work being done by TCCF. This year the focus was on Gabriel Sampson, a young boy who is currently waiting for surgery at The Sick Kids Hospital. In order to raise money this year, they had a raffle that included prizes like Google Home and Fitbit. Although our table was unlucky in winning any prizes that night, we had all won in a much different way. At that table we formed new friendships and bonds; ways in which we as a community can work together in a greater capacity to support organizations like TCCF. We are inviting members of the community to join us in our efforts by donating to https://tccfangels.com/donate-now/. We look forward to having you join us at the 20^th Annual Angel Gala, 2020.