The Donor: David Shiffman
The gift: More than $1-million and climbing
The cause: Baycrest Health Sciences
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David Shiffman and his family have been donating to Toronto's Baycrest Health Sciences for decades, and now his pet dog is involved.
His connection to the centre, which specializes in brain health and aging, dates back nearly 100 years. His father-in-law owned the land where Baycrest was built after Mr. Shiffman's wife gifted the property to the centre. Mr. Shiffman, who is 91 and founded a construction business, has also donated more than $1-million over the years.
Now, he has entered his toy poodle called Cutie Pie in a Baycrest competition called "Dogs on the Catwalk" that is raising money to fund therapeutic programs for dementia residents. The event ends on Oct. 20 and so far, Cutie Pie has raised more than $12,000 in sponsorships.
"I thought [Cutie Pie] would fit in nicely," Mr. Shiffman said of his dog's contribution to Baycrest. As for his overall commitment to the centre over the years, Mr. Shiffman added: "I always thought it was time to do something to help with their needs."
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