#GivingTuesday: 4 Canadian Charities You Should Support
As we bask in the afterglow of Black Friday deals and Cyber Monday madness (yes, even we in Canada partake in these wild traditions), it’s important to take a moment to not only be thankful, but to give back. Giving Tuesday, which occurs on the first Tuesday of December each year, is a day set aside for people across the globe to remember the importance of contributing to worthy causes both locally and internationally.
We at EDPR have identified four charities that are very close to our hearts, and suggest you take a moment to check them out and (if you can) donate to the cause.
1. World Animal Protection (WAP)
Being the animal lovers we are, it should come as no surprise that this charity lands at the top of our list.
“We are World Animal Protection. We were known as WSPA (World Society for the Protection of Animals). Our vision is a world where animal welfare matters and animal cruelty has ended. Together we can move the world to protect animals.”
Read more about World Animal Protection by clicking here.
2. Toronto People With AIDS Foundation
Although strides have been made in the HIV/AIDS community, it’s important to remember that there are still many in the world suffering with this epidemic.
“We engage people living with HIV/AIDS in enhancing their health and well-being through practical and therapeutic support services and broader social change, and we inspire them to live into their dreams and discoveries.”
Read more about Toronto People With AIDS Foundation by clicking here.
3. Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada
Having the pleasure of working with Starlight Canada for many years, we’ve been privileged enough to see just how impactful their work is for sick children and their families.
“Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada has been brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families by them bringing joy, laughter and relief, for over 25 years. We focus on the family as a whole, at a time when they feel most isolated, offering programs and events that can provide an escape from the stress of dealing with a serious illness every day.”
Read more about Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada by clicking here.
4. Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives
More client love on this list, but also an organization that holds much importance to the LGBTQIA+ community in Canada. Often overlooked, this valuable charity is detrimental to preserving important pieces in Canadian history.
“The Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives (CLGA) is the largest independent LGBTQ+ archives in the world. With a focus on Canadian content, the CLGA acquires, preserves and provides public access to information and archival materials in any medium.”
Read more about Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives by clicking here.
We hope you find some time today to reflect and give back to the charities that mean most to you. Remember, it’s not always just monetary support that is needed in these organizations, many are always looking for volunteers to help out with initiatives throughout the year. We wish you a very happy #GivingTuesday, and let us know in the comments below what your favourite charities are!
High Tea Fundraiser Returns for Second Year at Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York
The second annual Tea & Tiaras will awe hundreds of Toronto’s finest with fashion, food and entertainment, all to support Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada
TORONTO, ON (September 29, 2015) - Mothers, daughters, aunts, grandmothers, cousins, friends and colleagues are preparing to dress in their Sunday best on October 25, 2015 to attend an afternoon filled with delicious teas and high fashion at Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada’s second annual Tea & Tiaras. The event, hosted by Suhana Meharchand, will take place at Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York (100 Front Street West) from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., is an elegant afternoon geared to raise awareness and funds for Starlight Canada.
Throughout the afternoon, guests will be showered with a variety of decadent gourmet tea and treats, along with an assortment of live entertainment featuring many of Starlight Canada’s family programming recipients. Event highlights will include a performance by Starlight teen Karyssa, whose musical training throughout her chemotherapy treatment has brought her closer to her dream of becoming a recording artist; a fashion show featuring Starlight mothers and daughters modelling high fashions from Riani Designs; and a live art performance piece from pop artist Jessica Gorlicky, which will later be available for auction at the event.
In addition to live entertainment, Starlight Canada has enlisted the help of several local vendors to provide experiential moments throughout Tea & Tiaras, including a beauty corner (stocked with high end products at enviable prices), a custom photo booth and three pop-up boutiques featuring Ma Lu shoes, Skinlicious handcrafted soaps, and Tocara Jewelry. Guests will also be able to take advantage of the event’s silent auction which includes items such as airfare tickets from Air Canada Foundation to anywhere in North America, a one-year Goodlife gym membership, beauty baskets from M·A·C and Estée Lauder and much much more. Original works of art crafted by Starlight children, who have harnessed the power and therapeutic nature of creativity to cope will their illness and recovery will also be available for purchase.
“We are excited to be celebrating our 2nd Annual Tea & Tiaras event this October,” says Starlight Canada executive director Brian Bringolf. “Last year, our inaugural tea raised much needed funds for Starlight’s programming that supports seriously ill children and their families across the country – for 2015, we are anticipating a bigger and better event as Tea & Tiaras grows significantly.”
This year, Starlight Canada is thrilled to be welcoming an extensive list of Canadian talent to join in on the afternoon tea party including: JUNO winner Simone Denny; musicians Alessia Cole and Tara Shannon; Corner Gas’ Tara Spencer-Nairn; Saving Hope’s Kim Shaw and Parveen Kaur; media personalities Kim D’Eon, Lynn Spence and Allison Dore; along with many others.
Returning for their second year as Tea & Tiaras’ presenting sponsor is Bloom Lanys Professional Corporation, who are joined by supporting sponsors Toys“R”Us Canada and Babies“R”Us Canada, SmartREIT, Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP, TCG National, Metrowide, and Salt Depot.
Tickets for the second annual Tea & Tiaras can be purchased online for $80 per person, or $640 for a table of eight by visiting http://www.teaandtiaras.ca.
About Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada:
Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada is part of Starlight’s global network, serving kids and families through partnerships with more than 130 healthcare facilities. Over the past 30 years, Starlight has become a leading global charity that partners with experts to improve the life and health of kids and families around the world. Collaborating with innovators in pediatric healthcare, entertainment and technology, Starlight provides a unique blend of family-centered programs and services from hospital to home. Starlight partners with more than 1,750 healthcare facilities and pediatric hospitals in Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States, serving millions of children every year.
Website: http://starlightcanada.org
Twitter: @StarlightCanada #TeaandTiaras
Facebook: http://facebook.com/starlightcanada
About Bloom & Lanys:
Bloom Lanys Professional Corporation is a real estate boutique law firm providing business-driven service to its clients in a wide range of real estate transactions. For more than 25 years, BLPC has been advising on real estate acquisitions, dispositions, and financings, and we are proud to say we have been a supporter of the excellent work of Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada for many years. For more information, please call 416-486-9913 or email reception@bloom-lanys.com.
Runners to ‘Light up the Night’ in six Canadian cities during 2015’s Pure Protein Night Race™
Popular night race benefiting Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada comes to Calgary, Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton and Vancouver
TORONTO, ON (July 23, 2015) – Over the months of August and September 2015, 14,000 Canadians will gather in six cities across the country to participate in the Pure Protein Night Race™. The race, which will take place at local city parks in Calgary (August 8, 2015), Ottawa (August 15, 2015), Toronto (September 5, 2015), Montreal (September 11, 2015), Edmonton (September 19, 2015), and Vancouver (September 25, 2015), will see participants run or walk for a distance of 5-10K under the evening stars. This year, Pure Protein Night Race™ has chosen Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada as their charity beneficiary of choice, with a portion of the race proceeds being donated to brighten the lives of seriously ill children across Canada.
Ready, set, go!
Each Pure Protein Night Race™ will be an evening of celebration, jam-packed with activities for participants and supporters to enjoy throughout the event. Beginning with a preliminary warm up by the event hosts, participants will then be equipped with an Energizer® LED headlight and an opportunity to deck themselves out in the Brooks Glow Zone, which will supply a variety of glow-in-the-dark paint for runners to sport on their 5-10K journey. In addition, each course will be fitted with interactive themed music stations, where participants can rehydrate and boogie to their favourite songs from the disco and rock genres, along with requesting musical selections of their own.
Other activities throughout the evening include a Molson Canadian beer garden, Pure Protein photo booth and spin-to-win game, Starlight Children’s Foundation 50/50 draw and a selection of hearty food for both runners and supporters to refuel with after the race. Following the run, attendees will be treated to a light show accompanied by a local DJ’s musical stylings. The 2015 race is supported by a number of generous sponsors including Pure Protein, Molson Canadian 67, Brooks, Energizer and Running Room.
“The Pure Protein Night Race is Canada’s celebration of everything running,” says event organizer Ted Jarvis. “Part of the running experience is coming together to help others. We are so excited to have our runners experience the difference that Starlight Children’s Foundation can make in the lives of children. ”
Brightening the lives of ill children
As Pure Protein Night Race’s™ charity of choice, Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada will be present at each city race with a Starlight child ambassador, who will take the stage to share their story with the audience of participants. A portion of the proceeds raised from this year’s races will be donated to Starlight Canada to assist in brightening the lives of seriously ill children through a variety of in and out-of-hospital programs.
“We are thrilled to be chosen as this year’s charity beneficiary,” says Starlight Canada executive director Brian Bringolf. “Support from events like the Pure Protein Night Race™ play an important role in providing Starlight children with a chance to create much-needed positive memories away from their sometimes gruelling treatments and therapies.”
Official Dates, Locations and Times*
Calgary (August 8, 2015) – 9:35 p.m., North Glenmore Park
Ottawa (August 15, 2015) – 8:20 p.m., Mooney’s Bay Park (Terry Fox Field)
Toronto (September 5, 2015) – 7:40 p.m., Sunnybrook Park
Montreal (September 11, 2015) – 8:30 p.m., Old Port of Montreal
Edmonton (September 19, 2015) – 8:05 p.m., Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park
Vancouver (September 25, 2015) – 7:10 p.m., Stanley Park
*all times listed are in local time zone.
For more information and to register for this year’s Pure Protein Night Race™ in your city, please visit http://www.nightrace.ca.
For media accreditation, photos or to schedule an interview, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
P: 647.638.1586 | e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada:
Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada is part of Starlight’s global network, serving kids and families through partnerships with more than 130 healthcare facilities. Over the past 30 years, Starlight has become a leading global charity that partners with experts to improve the life and health of kids and families around the world. Collaborating with innovators in pediatric healthcare, entertainment and technology, Starlight provides a unique blend of family-centered programs and services from hospital to home. Starlight partners with more than 1,750 healthcare facilities and pediatric hospitals in Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand and the United Kingdom and the United States, serving millions of children every year.
Website: http://www.starlightcanada.org/
Twitter: @StarlightCanada
Facebook: http://facebook.com/starlightcanada
Youtube: http://youtube.com/canadastarlight
Instagram: @StarlightCanada
About the Running Room:
Running Room was founded in 1984 in one room of an old house shared with a hairdressing shop in Edmonton, Alberta. The success of Running Room is reliant on the fact that it doesn’t just sell shoes and equipment; it sells a commitment to active living. Today, this Canadian company is one of North America’s most recognized names in running and walking.
About Pure Protein:
Pure Protein is the active lifestyle brand that helps you achieve your personal best. We believe that individual commitment and shared celebration are the cornerstones of personal accomplishment, and are by your side to give you the daily drive and momentum to power your possibilities. Pure Protein offers a range of protein formulations to suit your individual needs, and help you achieve your goals, whatever they are. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/PureProteinCanada
About Brooks Running Company:
Brooks Running Company designs and markets running-specific performance footwear, apparel, and accessories in more than 60 countries worldwide. Brooks’ mission is to inspire everyone to run and be active by creating innovative gear that keeps them running longer, farther and faster. Brooks’ mission is supported by its Run Happy philosophy, a quest to celebrate and champion the sport of running and all runners everywhere. Founded 1914, Brooks is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. and is headquartered in Seattle. Visit www.brooksrunning.com for more information or follow us on Twitter (@brooksrunningca) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/brooksrunningca).
About Energizer Holdings, Inc.:
Energizer Holdings, Inc. (ENR) is a consumer goods company operating globally in the broad categories of household and personal care products. We currently offer solutions in portable power, lighting, wet shave and personal grooming, skin care, feminine care and infant care.
About Molson Canadian 67:
Molson Canadian 67® is specially brewed to only 67 calories and 3% ABV per 341ml serving using only the best this land has to offer – Canadian water, barley, & no preservatives.
Helpling Encourages Torontonians to #SeizeSummer with Social Contest
Leading global cleaning platform will provide GTA residents with the ultimate summer gift: more free time.
TORONTO (June 23, 2015) - With summer well underway, the leading online platform for professional household cleaners, Helpling.com, is encouraging its customers to get outside and #SeizeSummer! During the months of July and August 2015, Helpling will be rewarding participating followers weekly with six hours of free home cleaning through a Twitter and Instagram hosted #SeizeSummer photo challenge. Helpling’s ultimate goal is to encourage Greater Toronto Area social media users to get out and enjoy their summer, rather than spending precious down time trapped inside cleaning.
Tweet to win six hours of free cleaning!
Helpling is asking both Twitter and Instagram users to snap a photo of themselves participating in an activity outside of their homes, making sure to tag @HelplingCA while including the hashtag #SeizeSummer. Each week for the months of July and August, Helpling will randomly select one winner on each social network to receive six hours of free home cleaning, providing the gift of more free time to continue enjoying the summer weather!
“As we finally enter the warm months of summer, we wanted to do something special for Torontonians that allowed them to take advantage of their recreational time over the season,” says Helpling managing director Blake Connoy. “After being forced to spend a majority of the winter trapped indoors, we feel the last thing Canadians should have to do is spend their summer free time worrying about monotonous chores like cleaning.”
Since launching in Toronto in December 2014, Helpling.com has served over X satisfied customers in the Greater Toronto Area, providing users with the easiest online solution to conquering their home cleaning. With a 4.7 star (out of 5) rating from their loyal customer base, the $25/hour service connects people with Helpling registered cleaners in their area. Often referred to as the “Uber of household cleaning”, Helpling’s extensive registration process, which includes a cleaning test, background check and personal interview, finding a qualified cleaner has never been easier.
In addition to launching an online platform, Helpling has also made themselves available in app form, which connects with calendar apps, allows for single or recurring bookings, shows when a preferred cleaner is available and features payment via credit card and direct debit. Users can download the Helpling app for iOS by clicking here, or for Android, by clicking here.
For more information, photos or interview requests, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
o: 416.963.9857 e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Helpling:
Helpling is the leading global online platform for professional home cleaners. On the website or the mobile app customers can book a vetted and insured service provider within a couple of click. The innovative online service gives people more time to enjoy the nice things in life: family, friends and leisure activities.
Helpling was founded by Benedikt Franke, Philip Huffman and Rocket Internet in January 2014. The company now has more than 250 employees and offers its service in more than 200 cities in Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain and Sweden. This makes Helpling the most widely available online marketplace for household services in the world.
Website: http://www.helpling.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/helplingca
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/helpling
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/helplingca
Book a home cleaner on the go: Helpling launches Canadian mobile app
TORONTO: Helpling, the online platform for booking home cleaning, has just announced the release of its mobile app for iOS and Android. The app, currently available to customers across the Greater Toronto Area, is geared to make booking residential cleaning easier for clients who are booking on the go. Helpling.com launched in Toronto in December 2014.
The Helpling app lets users book a home cleaner securely and conveniently. It offers fast one-touch booking, allowing customers who have set up an account to re-book with one tap. Finding a residential cleaner used to require customers to consult yellow pages, seek out personal recommendations and research meticulously online. With Helpling’s extensive registration process, which includes a cleaning test, background check and personal interview, finding a qualified cleaner has never been easier. Now users of the Helpling app can simply enter an address, the amount of cleaning required and a desired date for their booking. Helpling’s intuitive algorithm then recommends the best cleaner for the selected. Right after booking, clients can save the date directly to their smartphone calendar or forward the details via email or SMS.
“Canadians across the country are using their smartphones on a daily basis to order services like food delivery and taxi rides,” says Helpling Canada managing director Blake Connoy. “We’re confident that the Helpling app will provide another solution to making everyday life easier and more efficient for customers across the GTA.”
App Advantages and Features
The Helpling app makes booking a cleaner easier than ever before. It connects with calendar apps, allows for single or recurring bookings, shows when a preferred cleaner is available and features payment via credit card and direct debit. The advantages of using the Helpling app include:
- Forward booking details directly via email or SMS to notify a partner or housemate that they can look forward to a clean home.
- Store bookings directly to phone calendars and set alerts for when a cleaner will need access to your home.
- Makes repeating a booking easy – after launching the app, customers can use their last selection to re-book with one touch.
- Free to download.
How it works
- Users can download the free app in the iOS or Android stores.
- Upon launching the app, customers are prompted to enter their cleaning requirements, along with indicating additional service requests, such as cleaning inside the oven, closets, refrigerator and window interiors.
- Customers may then select the desired frequency of the $25/hour service — once, weekly, or biweekly.
- After entering in location and contact information, users are paired (through a location-based algorithm) with a nearby Helpling cleaner.
- Users then pay using credit card or debit with a touch of the screen, and enjoy the easiest way to clean their home.
For more information, photos or interview requests, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
o: 416.963.9857 e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Helpling:
Helpling is the leading global online platform for professional home cleaners. On the website or the mobile app customers can book a vetted and insured service provider within a couple of click. The innovative online service gives people more time to enjoy the nice things in life: family, friends and leisure activities.
Helpling was founded by Benedikt Franke, Philip Huffman and Rocket Internet in January 2014. The company now has more than 250 employees and offers its service in more than 200 cities in Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain and Sweden. This makes Helpling the most widely available online marketplace for household services in the world.
Website: http://www.helpling.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/helplingca
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/helpling
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/helplingca
Kevin Zegers Stars in Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada’s New Play In May Campaign
TORONTO, ON (April 14, 2015) — Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada, a leading charity that partners with experts to improve the life and health of kids and families around the world, will launch its first 2015 Play in May® campaign, sponsored by Leetwo Metal Inc. Play In May will raise awareness for the healing power of play, along with funds for Starlight’s innovative programs that support pediatric patients and their families.
To accompany the campaign, Starlight’s Play In May recruitment video stars family favourite Air Bud, along with original “Air Bud” Canadian actor Kevin Zegers (“Transamerica,” “Gossip Girl”) and eight-year-old actress McKenna Grace (“Russell Madness,” “The Young and the Restless”). Fundraisers are encouraged to sign up to join the Play in May fundraising campaign while also participating in social media engagement to inspire and motivate players and donors to support the ongoing needs of Starlight kids and families across the nation.
After the resounding success of 2014’s Play In May campaign (exclusively held in the United States), the initiative expanded to include Starlight Canada in 2015. Individuals, corporations and teams can join the campaign by registering online at PlayinMayCanada.com. Participants are encouraged to engage in play – any play – from May 1 to 15 for just 15 minutes a day. Funds raised will help Starlight support kids and families from hospital to home through its wide array of family-centred programs.
“Here at Starlight, we are very excited to take part in this initiative that encourages participants to bond with their families and friends while taking part in the healing process of play,” said Starlight Canada executive director, Brian Bringolf. “Play in May presents an ideal opportunity to raise funds for Starlight families and also to helps us strengthen our programming and reach more seriously ill children across the country.”
Donations from the Play in Maycampaign will help fund Starlight’s in and out-of-hospital programming such as Comfort Kits (filled with all the essentials of an unexpected hospital stay), Hospital Grants, Fun Centers™ (featuring a Sharp AQUOS flat-screen television and a Nintendo Wii-U™ gaming system preloaded with a wide variety of games), Wishes and Day Brighteners that range from special outings to music or sporting events.
Visit PlayinMayCanada.com to learn more and sign up today.
For additional information, photos or interview requests, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
p: 647.638.1586 | e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada:
Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada is part of Starlight’s global network, serving kids and families through partnerships with more than 130 healthcare facilities. Over the past 30 years, Starlight has become a leading global charity that partners with experts to improve the life and health of kids and families around the world. Collaborating with innovators in pediatric healthcare, entertainment and technology, Starlight provides a unique blend of family-centered programs and services from hospital to home. Starlight partners with more than 1,750 healthcare facilities and pediatric hospitals in Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States, serving millions of children every year.
Website: http://starlightcanada.org
Twitter: @StarlightCanada #PlayInMay
Facebook: http://facebook.com/starlightcanada
Instagram: http://instagram.com/starlightcanada
YouTube: http://youtube.com/canadastarlight
About Leetwo Metal Inc.:
Montreal-based Leetwo Metal Inc. is a leader in the precision sheet metal and precision machining industries. Having ensured the customers’ expectations are met and/or exceeded, the company has seen phenomenal growth over the last 17 years. Based on this growth, Leetwo Metal has invested in the facility, state of the art technology, equipment, people and processes to meet the evolving needs of our customers by providing them with the expanding tools necessary for their success.
Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada Announces 20th Annual Gala Hosted by Rick Campanelli
Organization brings in landmark year with star-studded ‘Roaring Twenties’ themed fundraising event
TORONTO, ON (March 17, 2015) – Gangsters, flappers, pearls and feathers will fill Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York Hotel ballroom (100 Front St. West) on Saturday, April 18, 2015 to celebrate the 20th annual Gala for the Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada, hosted by Canadian television personality Rick Campanelli. The fundraising Gala, presented by Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us Canada, is one of the foundation’s largest fundraising initiatives in support of its in and out-of-hospital programming for seriously ill children across Canada.
Guests of the ‘Roaring Twenties’ event can look forward to a memorable and moving evening filled with 1920’s glamour and lavish entertainment. The luxe decor will be complemented with crystal chandeliers, stringed pearls, themed walking tables, gangsters and flapper girls, a jailhouse photo booth, along with a performance by Belluscious. The evening will be followed by a ‘speak easy’ themed after party, complete with specialized cocktails and billiards.
“While the event is a themed gala, the true camaraderie and spirit of the evening comes out when our past and present Starlight children speak about what Starlight has done for them and means to them,” says Starlight executive director Brian Bringolf. “There is truly not a dry eye in the house and our supporters understand very clearly in that moment why they have chosen to support Starlight.”
Celebrities scheduled to attend include: television personality Carson Arthur, Love It Or List It’s Hilary Farr, Map To The Stars’ Jayne Heitmeyer, Toronto Argonaut Jonathan Hood, actress Kelly McCormack, actor Larry Day, JUNO nominated musician Melanie Durrant, musician Nikki Yanofsky, event host and television personality Rick Campanelli, television and radio personalities Rudy Blair and Taylor Kaye, musician Simone Denny along with many other notable Canadians.
Starlight Canada is pleased to welcome an extensive group of sponsors in support of its 20th annual Gala. Supporters include: Presenting Sponsor, Toys”R”Us and Babies”R”Us Canada; Diamond Sponsor, Great Blue Heron Charity Casino; Gold Sponsors, Bloom Lanys Professional Corporation and Delmar; and Silver Sponsors, Corus/YTV, Dorel, Energizer/Platex, and Mattel.
“At Toys“R”Us, our charitable giving revolves around keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need,” said Kevin Macnab, President, Toys“R”Us, Canada. “That’s why we are so proud to be longstanding partners with the Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada and share a common goal of brightening the lives of seriously ill children when they need a reason to smile.”
The partnership between Starlight Children’s Foundation and Toys”R”Us has flourished over the past 17 years, raising over $12 million dollars through a number of fundraising initiatives including their annual Star Campaign (in which customers are able to donate to Starlight at the Toys“R”Us or Babies”R”Us cash register) and the sale of Starlight bear Hiya (a stuffed bear designed by two seriously ill Starlight brothers). In addition, Toys”R”Us and Babies”R”Us Canada opened up their doors late last year in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Edmonton and Vancouver to donate three-minute all-you-can-grab shopping sprees to eight seriously ill Starlight children.
Since its inception in 1995, the Starlight Gala has raised over $5,500,000 dollars, making it one of the foundation’s largest sources for fundraising. Tickets for this year’s event can be purchased online by visiting http://www.starlightcanadagala.org.
For media accreditation, photos or interview requests, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
p: 647.638.1586 | e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada:
Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada is part of Starlight’s global network, serving kids and families through partnerships with more than 130 healthcare facilities. Over the past 30 years, Starlight has become a leading global charity that partners with experts to improve the life and health of kids and families around the world. Collaborating with innovators in pediatric healthcare, entertainment and technology, Starlight provides a unique blend of family-centered programs and services from hospital to home. Starlight partners with more than 1,750 healthcare facilities and pediatric hospitals in Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States, serving millions of children every year.
Website: http://starlightcanada.org
Twitter: @StarlightCanada #StarGala20
Facebook: http://facebook.com/starlightcanada
Instagram: http://instagram.com/starlightcanada
YouTube: http://youtube.com/canadastarlight
About Toys“R”Us, Canada:
Toys“R”Us (Canada) Ltd and Babies“R”Us (Canada) Ltd are part of Toys“R”Us, Inc., the world’s leading dedicated toy and baby products retailer. Toys“R”Us, Canada operates 82 full-sized stores across the country. For store locations and convenient online shopping visit www.toysrus.ca and www.babiesrus.ca.
About Great Blue Heron Charity Casino:
The Great Blue Heron Charity Casino, located in scenic Port Perry Ontario, first opened its doors in 1997 and has steadily developed into one of Ontario’s premier casino destinations. With 550 exciting slots, 60 thrilling table games and award winning dining, the Great Blue Heron Casino is the closest casino to Toronto. The project is operated by a partnership consisting of Casinos Austria International, the Steiner Group and Sonco Gaming Inc. on behalf of the Mississauga’s of Scugog Island First Nation and OLG.
Website: http://www.gbhcasino.com
About The Michaels Companies, Inc.
The Michaels Companies, Inc., is North America’s largest specialty retailer of arts and crafts. As of Jan. 3, 2015, the Company owns and operates 1,168 Michaels stores in 49 states and Canada and 121 Aaron Brothers stores, and produces 11 exclusive private brands including Recollections®, Studio Decor®, Bead Landing®, Creatology®, Ashland®, Celebrate Its®, ArtMinds®, Artist’s Loft®, Craft Smart®, Loops & Threads® and Imagin8®. Visit www.Michaels.com for additional information.
The Uber of Household Cleaning, Helpling.com, Prepares Toronto Homes for Spring
TORONTO, ON (March 10, 2015) – Tackling dirty refrigerators, messy closets, grease caked ovens and filthy windows can be a thing of the past for Torontonians as they begin their spring cleaning routines this year. Helpling.com, a web-based platform for booking home cleaning services is providing the ultimate residential cleaning solution with just a couple of clicks.
With the rising popularity of the sharing-economy, services like Helpling, Air Bnb and Uber are more popular than ever. Canadians are looking for simple, trustworthy options to outsource everyday needs including cleaning, accommodations and daily travel. Helpling.com connects experienced, background-checked and insured cleaners to Toronto consumers with a 100% money-back guarantee for just $25 per hour.
How Helpling Works
Customers are able to book a Helpling partner to clean their home in just three easy steps:
- Visit Helpling.com – customers are asked to provide the address of the location they would like cleaned, along with contact information to secure their booking.
- Book an appointment – users choose a date and time that best suits their needs.
- Pay securely online – all taxes and tip are included in the $25/hour price.
“Spring cleaning is a task that so many of us dread each year,” says Helpling Canada managing director Blake Connoy. “Our mission is to free up time by providing a reliable, turn-key solution to our customers while removing some of the stress that comes from organizing the household for warm weather.”
Since launching in December 2014, Helpling’s cleaners have maintained a 4.74 star (our of 5) rating from their loyal customer base. Through an extensive interview and selection process, the tech startup maintains a rigorous dedication to providing the ultimate in customer service for their users.
In preparation for spring, Helpling.com customers are able to save $15 off their booking by entering the promotional code ‘SPRING’ at checkout during the months of March and April.
For more information, photos or interview requests, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
o: 416.963.9857 e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Helpling:
Helpling is the leading global online platform for professional home cleaners. On the website or the mobile app customers can book a vetted and insured service provider within a couple of click. The innovative online service gives people more time to enjoy the nice things in life: family, friends and leisure activities.
Helpling was founded by Benedikt Franke, Philip Huffman and Rocket Internet in January 2014. The company now has more than 250 employees and offers its service in more than 200 cities in Austria, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain and Sweden. This makes Helpling the most widely available online marketplace for household services in the world.
Website: http://www.helpling.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/helplingca
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/helpling
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/helplingca
#FUNFACTS About Valentine’s Day (INFOGRAPHIC)
Many of us will be celebrating tomorrow’s day of love, whether with a significant other or a good bottle of wine. In celebration, our client Helpling.com has put together a fun little INFOGRAPHIC (below) that details some of the lesser known facts about Valentine’s Day. Check them out!
Make Your Sweetheart Swoon: A Fail-Proof Three-Step Guide To Valentine’s Day
TORONTO, ON (February 2, 2015) - Valentine’s Day can be a dreaded holiday for many. The expectation, planning and execution for the “most romantic” day of the calendar year are enough to make just about anyone buckle under the pressure. This year, the fine folk at Helpling.com want to make things a little bit easier for both men and women, by providing a three-step guide to making your sweetheart swoon on Valentine’s Day. February 14th no longer has to be a dreaded holiday if you just take a few measures to make the day stand out for your special someone.
Step One: Get Shopping
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Buy A Frame: Type and print a list of the ten things you love about your significant other and place it in the frame. This thoughtful and personalized gift is the perfect way to make your sweetie smile.
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Make A Playlist: Because Valentine’s Day lands on a Saturday this year, you have the advantage of making themed playlists to complement each part of the day. Feeling lazy? Head over to Songza or Spotify and get pre-made lists to set the mood.
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Find Their Favourites: Whether you’ve been in a relationship for three months or three years, you usually have a good idea of your partner’s favourite things. Grab a selection of them and put them in a decorative basket or box. The thoughtfulness and time put into sourcing all of their favourite things will undoubtedly be a huge hit.
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Get Breakfast Supplies: As outlined before, Valentine’s Day lands on a Saturday, so what better way to surprise your sweetheart than with breakfast in bed? Grab the essentials like eggs and bacon, and don’t forget some strawberries with icing sugar!
Step Two: Prepare Your Home
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Clean The House: Although not always the most romantic task, a clean house will make the love of your life beam with delight. Take the time to get your space tidy, and if you don’t have the time, you can always outsource. Check out Helpling.com where you can book an experienced and insured cleaner who will come in to save the day.
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Dress Up Your Space: This task doesn’t have to be hard. Often times you can find some amazing romantic decorations at the most convenient of places, including your local dollar store.
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Draw A Bath: There’s nothing more romantic than drawing a relaxing bath for your significant other. Go the extra mile and pick up some bath products to spruce up the experience, or better yet, make some (as directed by Martha Stewart) with your partner’s favourite scents.
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Spruce Up Your Sheets: Imagine the surprise and delight of your partner as they come out of the bath and into glamourous new sheets? Be sure to check out your local Winners or Marshalls for amazing deals on top thread counts!
Step Three: Make The Day Count
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Communicate In The Morning: Not everyone lives with their significant other, so it’s important to take the time to give your special someone a call in the morning. Wish them a Happy Valentine’s Day. A little effort goes a long way.
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Serve Breakfast: Now that you have all the materials for breakfast, follow through and actually make it. Remember: presentation counts. A single rose in a tiny vase can dress up your whole presentation — find ways to indulge your partner in small details (this is also the perfect time to present your framed list that you put together earlier).
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Have Activities Ready: Beyond breakfast, have some activities planned for your sweetie, whether that means a walk through the city, cooking class or a dinner out — put some effort into having the agenda planned. If you’re planning to dine in, make the planning easier with Toronto-based Chef’s Plate, who will deliver perfectly portioned ingredients and chef-inspired recipes to cook a meal at home (receive $25 off with the promotional code: VDAYCHEF)!
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Enjoy: As stressful as this holiday may seem, it’s meant to serve as a chance for couples to celebrate their affection for each other. Take time to enjoy your partner’s company and show them just how much you love them.
This Valentine’s Day, Helpling.com has partnered with specialty stores Bakes & Goods (2523 Yonge St.), Chef’s Plate, and Gilded & Green (3232 Yonge St.) to offer a special giftcard with all Valentine’s related purchases. To participate and find more information, please visit http://www.helpling.com/valentine.
For more information, photos or interview requests, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
o: 416.963.9857 e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Helpling:
Helpling Canada is a fast-growing company based in Toronto. The company’s mission is to make home cleaning services conveniently accessible to customers at a transparent hourly rate. Launched in Toronto in December 2014, Helpling is an online platform for booking cleaners quickly. The service is also available in Germany, where the global headquarters are based, as well as Austria, France, Sweden, Italy, Brazil, Spain and the Netherlands. Helpling is supported by Rocket Internet, the world’s largest internet incubator.
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