“About six weeks after our son James was born, my husband and I noticed something was wrong, said Hilary Wingate, Senior Director of Toys at Walmart Canada. “James had stomach issues. We took him to several doctors. Shortly after, we were told he needed more specialized care, and he was referred to SickKids. I immediately knew our family was going to be in excellent hands.”
Hilary was all too familiar with SickKids. Growing up, her younger sister was a patient at SickKids and was in and out of the hospital for over a period of five years. She vividly remembers the incredible team of doctors and nurses who treated her sister, the comforting kids’ play spaces and the exceptional care her sister received.
Today, James and his twin sister Brooke are thriving, rambunctious 5-year-olds who - like many kids right now - are eagerly awaiting the holidays and a visit from Santa.
Donation dollars help hospitals fund groundbreaking research and critical hospital needs and ensure children, like James, receive the very best care.
Walmart Canada launched its holiday Spark a Miracle campaign in support of Children’s Miracle Network and its network of premier children’s hospitals. Customers can donate in-store and online from Nov. 14 to Dec. 24, with all funds staying local.
New this year, on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3, Walmart Canada will donate $1 from every toy sold in-store or online to Children’s Miracle Network up to $200,000.
“There’s nothing I love more than the magic of Christmas and seeing little faces light up when they unwrap a toy on their wish-list,” added Hilary. “But I also love having a full heart knowing that a portion of our toys sales will go towards helping children who need it most.”
“I’m so proud to work a for a company with such a strong commitment to children’s health and making a difference the lives of kids and their families."
In their 30-year partnership, Walmart Canada has raised and donated more than $215 million to Children’s Miracle Network and has grown to become their top corporate sponsor.
