The Just for Kids Foundation (JFK) will hold  its  fifth Annual Stroll for Kids event, a fun-filled philanthropic day that celebrates family and community,   on Sunday, September 22 (9:30 am to 12:30 pm)  at Pierre Elliot Trudeau Park (6975 Mackle Road) in  Cöte Saint-Luc.  More than $600,000 has already been raised.

Scenes from last year's Stroll for Kids.

Stroll for Kids is a family oriented activity-filled day, where those involved give back to their community while spending quality time with their loved ones.  Those who take part must register online, as a team or individually, and are encouraged to make a donation.  All funds raised will contribute to supporting JFK’s Comfort and Care Campaign which is dedicated to supporting the Montreal Children’s Hospital’s Operating Suites, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), the JFK Kangaroo Care Program, and the JFK Sibling Park.  

Throughout the day there are various entertainment and activities such as a petting zoo, clowns and carnival games to name a few, and snacks and lunch from some of the city’s favourite restaurants (such as Arthur’s, Venice, Gentile’s to name but a few!)

This year, funds raised will also aid in equipping the NICU with 46 new specialized recliners, created specifically for Kangaroo Care, the ultimate method of comfort and care for the tiniest patients. 

Jodie Zimmerman-Frenkiel  and Alana Geller  are the co-founders of the event.

 “ The event has always brought together families from within and around our community,” says Co-chair Tania Kakon. “Over the years new activities, food vendors and entertainment have come along so it really grows  into something newer every year. The driving force of the event is the loyalty of our returning supporters. The event reflect the values of the community serving a higher purpose that being the  ‘Just for Kids Foundation’  in this case.

"It really is thanks to Jodie Zimmerman - Frankiel and Allana Geller for having this incredible idea to get families together and teach their kids at a young age the importance of giving back and community all while having fun,” added Co-Chair Jaclyn Hoffman. “We have a strong and supportive community and the event brings 100 plus families together every year,  the majority of whom are returning families. Many families hear about this event through word of mouth, and by being supporters of the JFK Foundation.  This year we targeted new moms and dads, with the hope that they will return year after year with their growing families!  This is the first year we are introducing a theme for the stroll, a carnival theme, which adds a fun and different twist to the event compared to past years.”

Just for Kids Foundation raises funds to purchase high-priority medical equipment, and to support initiatives that improve the quality of care for patients of the Montreal Children’s Hospital. Over the past 30 years, we have purchased over $11 million of equipment, touching almost every department at the hospital. That is more than 200,000 children treated and 1,500 healthcare professionals who are better equipped to care for their patients.  

For more information on Just for Kids Foundation’s Stroll for Kids event visit the event page and register at www.JFKStrollforKids.com. You must raise a minimum of $250.