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6/18/2009
Teams Dedicate 24 Hours in Support of Ontario's Kids with Physical Disabilities

Toronto, ON, June 17, 2009— Imagine a day where every time you tried to move, you were met with a physical obstacle. Life wouldn’t be easy and you’d need some help. That is why teams of everyday people are fundraising and joining the Money Mart Easter Seals 24 Hour Relay. This event dubbed ‘party with a purpose’ features teams of people continuously jogging or walking a 1.6 kilometre course for 24 hours straight – all in support of children and youth with physical disabilities. This weekend’s popular Toronto fundraising event for Easter Seals kids takes place at Coronation Park on Toronto’s waterfront.

"Economic times are tough for families, but especially for families that care and provide for kids with a physical disability. A family with a child with a severe disability incurs huge expenses associated with their care that can cost up to $40,000 a year, “says Carol Lloyd, President and CEO, Easter Seals Ontario. “This weekend’s fundraising efforts really help children with physical disabilities live safely in their own homes with dignity, and a greater level of independence.“

EVENT:
Saturday June 20th – 21st: Money Mart Easter Seals 24 Hour Relay

HIGHLIGHTS AND TIMES:
8:30 a.m.: Opening Ceremonies and warm-up with Trish Stratus and Team STRATUSPHERE
9:00 a.m.: Fast Lap Executive Dash sponsored by Metro News Daily where corporate executives and team members, run the first lap for a cash prize to donate to Easter Seals.
12:30 p.m.: Deloitte Canine Circus performance
4:00 p.m.: “Relay Idol” where individuals perform for the coveted title
6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.: Relay Halftime Show including live bands Opus Road, The Junction and Under the Covers

INTERVIEWS:
Provincial Easter Seals Ambassadors and their families speak about how the public’s support has helped them
Carol Lloyd, Easter Seals Ontario, President and CEO and Rob Berkovitz, Chair of Board
Dennis Alexander of Team Deloitte and trainer for the Deloitte Canine Circus

LOCATION:
Coronation Park
711 Lakeshore Blvd West, Toronto (just east of Ontario Place)

For 87 years, Easter Seals Ontario has been assisting families of kids with physical disabilities with the purchase of costly mobility equipment and communication devices. By providing financial assistance, Easter Seals performs an essential service to families who might not otherwise have the resources to obtain this equipment. Easter Seals also owns and operates two fully accessible camp properties and is recognized as an industry leader in providing specialized recreation programs for kids with physical disabilities at Easter Seals camps.
For more information visit www.easterseals.org.

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For media inquiries contact:
Meredith Wiens
Manager, Communications
Easter Seals Ontario
(416)421-8377 ext. 368 Cell: (416) 659-7637
mwiens@easterseals.org