2017 Guardian Angels, Ken and Cynthya Schmidt. owners of the Trenton and Brighton McDonald’s franchises.(Photo/Alana Cameron/Quinte News).
It was a “Starry Night” in Belleville Saturday as tens of thousands of dollars were raised at the 16th annual Guardian Angel Gala for The Children’s Foundation.
The event, TCF’s largest fundraiser, also honoured its 2017 Guardian Angels – Ken and Cynthya Schmidt.
The Schmidts, owner operators of the McDonald’s restaurants in Trenton and Brighton, have been involved with TCF for 12 years and sponsor numerous other charities.
TCF Executive Director, Connie Reid.
The foundation works to improve the quality of life for at-risk children in Hastings, Northumberland and Prince Edward County every year.
While final totals aren’t in, the live auction alone raised more than $46 000.
There was also a silent auction, dinner and live band.
More than 330 people attended the event at the Sears Atrium on College Street.
Reid says proceeds from the gala will help hundreds of children.
Last year alone, more than 500 children signed up for a sport or activity through the Playing for Keeps program, 200 others were able to experience camp and another 50 youth continued their post secondary education.
The evening’s guest speaker, 16-year-old Jason Lyons spoke about the positive impact the foundation has had on his life.
He’s benefited from the Camps of Hope and Playing for Keeps programs.
