(TORONTO) – Today the Canadian Red Cross mourns the loss of Kroum Pindoff, founder of Music World Limited and Pindoff Record Sales Limited; a compassionate humanitarian and long-time supporter of the work of the Canadian Red Cross around the world. Mr. Pindoff died peacefully at home in his sleep on January 16 at the age of 97.
"This week we have lost a great humanitarian, supporter and friend. I speak for all of my colleagues at the Canadian Red Cross and in many of our sister societies around the world in expressing our sadness, as well as our gratitude for Mr. Pindoff’s tireless support, which touched the lives of countless people in need over the past two decades," said Conrad Sauvé, secretary general and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross.
Kroum and Eva Pindoff have been long-time supporters of the work of the Canadian Red Cross around the world, donating more than $20 million. The philanthropist couple have supported projects that addressed the needs of women, children and seniors who were affected by war in the former Yugoslavia. They have also channelled several million dollars to Red Cross projects assisting victims of landmines, and to those suffering due to droughts in Africa and projects throughout the Americas and Asia.
In the aftermath of the 2004 earthquake and tsunami in South Asia, the couple contributed $5 million to support Canadian Red Cross relief and recovery efforts – the largest ever personal contribution to a Canadian Red Cross disaster appeal.
In 2008, the Pindoffs contributed $5 million toward the creation of the Millennium Fund. Encouraging Canadians to join their efforts by contributing donations which they would then match, this fund continues to improve the health and lives of children, mothers and seniors in several areas including Africa, Nicaragua, Honduras, Haiti and Central Europe.
"The leadership demonstrated by the Pindoffs has had an impact far beyond their own giving; they have inspired others to action, motivating them to join their efforts to improve the quality of life for tens of thousands of people," said Millie Blair, manager of international operations for the Canadian Red Cross in Ontario. "While we mourn the loss of Mr. Pindoff today, we are mindful and deeply grateful for his legacy of caring and compassion."