The Durham Children’s Aid Foundation (DCAF) was the destination of a convoy of Oshawa-built pick-up trucks and GM vehicles, filled with toys and gifts, which delivered the presents and presented a donation from GM dealers across Canada. This donation continues the legacy of Sharon Clark, who started Sharon’s Kids at Oshawa Assembly —a program that has provided holiday gifts to children in need for more than 50 years.
“I’m so proud to see the generosity of our dealers and employees who came together to support this program that began over 50 years ago in Oshawa,” said Marissa West, GM Canada president and managing director. “I want to thank everyone for helping to continue Sharon’s legacy by making the holidays brighter for kids and families in Durham Region.”
GM Canada held a dealer contest for the opportunity to purchase the first 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 built for Canada, raising $253,000 for DCAF through donations from 106 GM dealers. The winning dealer is Lakewood Chevrolet in Edmonton, Alberta and will purchase a Torch Red Corvette Z06 Convertible 3LZ.
“We were excited to be able to support a cause as worthy as Sharon’s Kids for the chance to bring the first Chevrolet Corvette Z06 built for Canada to Lakewood Chevrolet,” said Pat Priestner of Lakewood Chevrolet. “We look forward to displaying such an iconic vehicle at our store.”
The $313,000 total amount donated to DCAF is made up of monetary donations from the GM Canada dealer contest, a $20,000 donation from Oshawa Assembly through the Plant City Grant Program and more than $40,000 in gifts from GM Canada employees. These presents will be distributed to hundreds of families through the DCAF Holiday Hope Program.
“The Durham Children’s Aid Foundation is extremely grateful for the ongoing support we receive from GM Canada and their network of dealers across Canada,” said Dennis Ullman, Executive Director of Durham Children’s Aid Foundation. “With their continued support, we can assist over 1,000 children and youth living in vulnerable family situations to celebrate the holiday season just like their friends and neighbours. Together we are working to ensure that No Child or Youth Shall Be Left Behind.”
In 1968, GM Canada employee Sharon Clark started Sharon’s Kids at the GM Oshawa Assembly plant. Since then, the program has grown into an annual fundraising program for all GM Canada employees.
