John McGivney Children’s Centre presented with new outdoor bench, and a surprise donation

November 3, 2023

A special ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on November 2, 2023 where the John McGivney Children’s Centre (JMCC) was presented with a new outdoor bench, along with a cheque for $5,000.

The Demeter and Thibert families donated a bench for the Play McGivney Playground. 

Denise Westlake thanked everyone for coming to honour her mom Gloria Demeter, a retired teacher and long-time supporter of In Honour of the Ones We Love.  “In Honour is a cause that has been very near and dear to my mom and to our family, and mom enjoyed attending and supporting all of their various fundraising events,” said Gloria. “She had a zest for life, a love of family and a fondness for children.  I know it will bring her great joy to know that this bench will be in the JMCC playground. She was a hugger, and with all the little children running around and playing, this bench is a way for her to give a hug to everyone who sits on it.”  Don Thibert, Gloria’s brother who sits on the board of In Honour of the Ones We Love, initiated the idea.

“This bench will serve as a special place of comfort for our children and families in our playground area. We thank the Demeter family so much for their thoughtfulness and generosity” said Katie Buchner, JMCC Director of Finance & Corporate Services.

In Honour of the Ones We Love founder Anita Imperioli also surprised JMCC with a cheque for $5,000. “In Honour has been a long-time supporter of the John McGivney Children’s Centre,” said Anita. "We are proud to continue to be able to support this amazing organization.”