Sept. 21, 2007/- Local golfers raised more than $7,900 for Hotel Dieu Hospital’s Child Development Centre (CDC) at the 5th Annual Bryan Allen Charity Golf Tournament. A defenseman with the Florida Panthers, Bryan Allen has helped raised more than $26,000 from his namesake charity golf tournament during the past five years.

Proceeds from this year’s tournament will once again support the Child Development Centre’s Chances for Children Trust Fund, a fund that provides financial assistance to families facing the high cost of purchasing special equipment for children with disabilities.

“This gift is a special one for the children who visit the CDC because it comes from one of their hockey heroes – Bryan Allen. We’re very grateful that Bryan and the others at the golf tournament have recognized the important work the CDC does at Hotel Dieu Hospital,” said Roger Wright, Chair of the Foundation.

CDC serves children and youth with physical disabilities and preschoolers with developmental delay. This includes children with multiple special needs such as cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy and Down Syndrome. Last year more than 1,100 children were registered with the CDC.

“We are delighted that Bryan Allen’s tournament has once again raised money to help parents in our community afford the steep cost of specialized equipment or home renovations that their children need to fully participate in life,” said Vicki Johnston, Director of CDC. “These funds will make a significant difference in the lives of local children and their families.”

This year’s tournament was held on July 7th at the Camden Braes Golf Club.

Upcoming CDC fundraisers include the 13th Annual CDC Walk/Run Saturday, September 22 at 11:00 a.m. at the Kingston Standard Church (1185 Sunnyside Road – The corner of Sunnyside & Sydenham Rd just north of the 401). On Saturday, November 17, the 2nd Annual Dinner/Auction will take place at the Royal Military College, Senior Officer’s Mess. Tickets are $45.00 per person. Find out more on both events by calling the Child Development Centre at 613-544-3400.

University Hospitals Kingston Foundation is the fundraising arm for Hotel Dieu Hospital, Kingston General Hospital and Providence Care (formerly Providence Continuing Care Centre). The Foundation raises money for programs, equipment, education and research that benefit the 500,000 people in Kingston and Southeastern Ontario served by the three teaching hospitals. To find out more about giving opportunities or to make a donation call 613-549-5452 or toll-free 866-549-5452 or go online to www.kingstonhospitalsfoundation.ca.

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