Canadians of Pakistani Origin (COPO) raises additional $100,000 in support of Markham Stouffville Hospital's Expansion Project

MARKHAM, ON, March 25, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadians of Pakistani Origin (COPO) of Ontario hosted their 11^th Annual Fundraising Gala on March 22 at the Crystal Fountain Banquet Hall, adding $100,000 to their previous commitment to Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation's $50 million expansion campaign. COPO's total contribution to the Hospital now stands at more than $1.25 million.

This sold out event brought together more than 650 guests, including politicians, diplomats, community leaders and philanthropists, in celebration of Pakistan National Day and to raise funds for local causes, including the expansion of MSH.

"Year after year, I am inspired by my fellow Muslims and Pakistanis as they continue to support Markham Stouffville Hospital," says Khalid Usman, Chair of COPO. "We know that a strong hospital is the cornerstone of any vibrant, growing community, so giving to our community hospital is easy."

Usman, a former Town Councillor and current member of the MSH Foundation's Board and Campaign Cabinet, continues to raise the bar for COPO while challenging other ethno cultural groups within Markham and Stouffville to support the Hospital as well.

"Without the support of the Canadians of Pakistani Origin and all our generous donors, the very recent opening of our new building could not have happened," says Suzette Strong, CEO, Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation. "As we celebrate one milestone, we also look ahead to the next phase in our expansion as the renewal of the original building begins. These extensive renovations, along with our fundraising efforts will continue for the next 12 to 18 months."

Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation has recognized COPO's generosity by naming the Emergency Department Orange Zone and a Radiography Suite in their honour. COPO's donation to Markham Stouffville Hospital ensures that thousands of families in the community will continue to have access to high quality care close to home.

About Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation

Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation exists to provide financial support as the hospital fulfils its mandate of providing compassionate, patient-centred care. Building a hospital is a partnership between the hospital, government and the community - each playing a significant role. All medical equipment is funded through donations from the community. Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation is raising $50 million to support the expansion and renewal of the hospital as it continues to provide excellent quality care to the community.

For more information on how to give, please visit us at http://www.msh.on.ca/mshf

About Canadians of Pakistani Origin

Canadians of Pakistani Origin (COPO) in Ontario is a registered not-for-profit organization that aims to unite the Pakistani and Muslim communities with other cultural communities while promoting understanding and respect for national laws and human rights standards. Fundraising and giving back to communities that are kind and welcoming to Pakistani and Muslim immigrants is a core objective of the organization. COPO does not provide grants intended to influence legislation or support candidates for political office.

SOURCE: Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation

Donna Doherty
Markham Stouffville Hospital Foundation
381 Church Street, Markham, ON L3P 7P3 
Tel: [phone] ext. 6972
Email: [email protected]