Vaughan, ON – September 14, 2018 – Last school year, the Student Leadership Committee at St. Padre Pio Catholic Elementary School comprised of Grade 6, 7 and 8 students took action and raised funds for Hospice Vaughan a local non-profit that provides compassionate support to individuals and their families facing a life-limiting illness or the loss of a loved one. The students raised funds throughout the school year through their Christmas concert and other fundraisers, as well as being supported by various Catholic School Council events.
In late June, the Executive Director, staff and several Board Members of Hospice Vaughan made a special visit to the school and talked about the importance of Hospice care, and supporting family and community. Everyone was excited to know more about the new 10 Bed Residential Hospice that is being built in the community. The students had amazing questions and many of them shared how illness and death have affected them and their families. The Student Leadership Committee at St. Padre Pio Catholic Elementary School presented Hospice Vaughan with a cheque for $7,000!
“Participating in this fundraising activity for Hospice Vaughan demonstrates our Catholic Faith in action. Our students found this to be a positive and inspirational experience. Students were moved and motivated by the knowledge that through their efforts they could contribute to a facility that will serve palliative care clients from Vaughan for generations to come.” – Angela Lomuto-Corriero, Principal, St. Padre Pio Catholic School
“I have never seen an accomplishment like this from an elementary school. These students have embraced the spirit of community and are truly having an impact and displaying the power of our youth. It was a pleasure to meet the students and to personally witness their interest, engagement and sincerity. On behalf of Hospice Vaughan and the clients we serve, our volunteers and staff, I would like to thank the students, their families, the Catholic School Council (St. Padre Pio CES parent council), school leadership and staff for their thoughtfulness and their efforts that helped raise the $7000. I would also like to personally challenge other schools in the community to take action and help us build the new Hospice Vaughan!” – Belinda Marchese, Executive Director of Hospice Vaughan
About Hospice Vaughan
Since 1995, Hospice Vaughan, a not-for-profit organization, has been providing compassionate support to individuals facing a life-limiting illness or the loss of a loved one. We provide in-home visiting volunteers, a day program and grief and bereavement support. Our services extend out to caregivers, family members and friends who also need support in their time of need and grief. All our programs and services are free of charge for individuals of all ages.