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Annual Fundraiser Raises $1.1 Million in Support of Canadian Alzheimer Societies
Coffee Break events help to fund critical programs and services
February 1, 2007
—Whether it was a cup of coffee, or the chance to connect with friends and family, Canadians coast to coast came out in the thousands during the 11th annual Alzheimer Coffee Break™, supporting the Alzheimer Society to the tune of more than $1.1 million.
The annual fundraising event, held at thousands of locations across Canada, raised a total of $1,132,400 in 2006, money that is now being used to help fund critical programs and services for people with Alzheimer's disease, their caregivers and their families.
"For the 11th straight year, Canadians have demonstrated their enormous capacity to give. Whether it is through a financial donation, or a donation of their time, it is thanks to the generosity of people across this country that we are able to provide education, support and hope to the hundreds of thousands of people touched by Alzheimer's disease," says Scott Dudgeon, chief executive officer of the Alzheimer Society of Canada.
The Alzheimer Society thanks its gold sponsor Joey's Only Seafood Restaurants, and silver sponsors Pfizer Canada Inc. and Creative Memories for their support of Coffee Break. Appreciation is also extended to generous in-kind sponsor Sara Lee Corporation.
"We would also like to recognize the efforts of Canadian retailers, who are playing an increasing role in the success of our coffee break fundraiser," adds Dudgeon. "We are especially grateful for the efforts of Bulk Barns across Canada, who promoted the coffee break events in-store, encouraging their customers to donate to the Alzheimer Society."
About Alzheimer Coffee Break
Alzheimer Coffee Break is the Alzheimer Society's nationwide fundraiser. Participants at locations across Canada make a donation in exchange for a cup of coffee, or the purchase of a coffee cup cut-out. Coffee breaks are unique to each location, and can take place anywhere. The 12th annual Alzheimer Coffee Break will kick off Thursday, September 20th, 2007. If you would like more information about the event or to host a coffee break, please call 1-888-815-6829 or click here.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, degenerative brain disorder that destroys vital brain cells. Alzheimer's and related diseases affect an estimated 1 in 13 Canadians over the age of 65, or approximately 450,000 people. It is estimated that 750,000 Canadians will have Alzheimer's or a related disease by the year 2031 if a cure is not found.
The Alzheimer Society is a nationwide, not-for-profit health organization dedicated to helping people affected by Alzheimer's disease. The Society develops and provides support and educational programs for people with the disease, their families and their caregivers. The Society is also a leading funder of Alzheimer research and training in Canada.
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