The goal was set: $260,000 for the 2025 Sun Christmas Fund, benefiting Variety Village. It felt monumental, almost impossible, especially when twelve-year-old Madi Ambos – the campaign’s chairkid and, technically, the boss – expressed her doubts. “I dunno. That’s a big number!” she’d said, a perfectly honest assessment of a nearly doubled fundraising target.
Miraculously, as the New Year’s Day deadline loomed, they were agonizingly close – just a few hundred dollars short. Then came an unexpected hero: Tulip, a cat. Not just any cat, but a feline entrepreneur who pledged $500 from future sales of her new adventure, “Viking Cat 2 – Lost in the City.” That single contribution pushed the total to a stunning $260,376.
Madi’s reaction was priceless. “Whoooa!” she exclaimed, genuinely astonished. “I didn’t know cats had money.” It was a whimsical moment, but it underscored a powerful truth: generosity comes from the most unexpected places. Tulip’s contribution, however, was merely the visible tip of a vast wave of kindness.
Over 900 donors from across the GTA, Canada, and even Poland, stepped forward to contribute. The list read like a who’s who of local heroes – Joe Bowen, the voice of the Maple Leafs, Paul Beeston, a legend of the Blue Jays, the Volt cart-hockey team, and countless individuals, including dedicated staff members from the Toronto Sun.
“A million thank-yous,” Madi offered, her voice filled with emotion. “Now I realize how big our Village family really is and how anything is possible.” This wasn’t just about the money; it was about the realization of a community united by a shared purpose – supporting children and families who rely on Variety Village.
The previous record, $139,210 in 2023, was shattered within the first week of December. This year’s success was a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Village’s staff, who tirelessly amplified the campaign’s message, and the inspiring stories of the children themselves.
At the heart of the Christmas Fund are the kids of Variety Village, a Scarborough sports centre designed for individuals with disabilities. Stella the Superhero, Leo with his quick wit, Michaela and her “brave bro” Michael, Cameron, Dalia, Maverick, Kyra, Leo, Kwesi, Ranee-Jessie, A.J. and his mother M.J., Zach, and even Tilley, the world’s cutest therapy dog – they all played a part.
Each story, each face, represented a life touched by Variety Village. Charlie Johnstone, Variety’s CEO, explained the significance: “The Sun Christmas Fund is the cornerstone of our annual fundraising. The Village stands as a testament to what’s possible when individuals of all abilities are provided the space, equipment and coaching to connect, thrive and achieve their personal best.”
This year’s funds will be particularly impactful for the Flames swim team, where Madi is a veteran. The team recently received their first para-swimming ratings, opening doors to national and international competitions. The Sun Christmas Fund will help fuel their dreams, allowing them to chase aquatic glory.
Madi summed up the profound importance of Variety Village with a simple, heartfelt statement: “If Variety Village ever closed down, I don’t know what we’d all do.” Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors, that future remains a distant, unthinkable possibility. The spirit of giving ensures that Variety Village will continue to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come.
