Gala benefit for the Red Cross in Quebec: $700,000 raised for emergency relief operations

Topics: Quebec, Philanthropy News
From left to right : Martin Thibodeau, Michèle Dionne, Norman Steinberg and Michel Léveillé | May 21, 2015

Montreal, May 21, 2015 – Guests attending the annual fundraiser for the Quebec Division of the Canadian Red Cross had the privilege of being transported to the heart of Marrakesh as Montreal’s New City Gas was clothed in Moroccan finery for the occasion. This colourful event raised $700,000 to support disaster response operations in Quebec. The financial information was disclosed by the co-chairs of the organizing committee including Norman Steinberg, Global Vice-Chair of Norton Rose Fulbright and Chairman of Norton Rose Fulbright Canada, Martin Thibodeau, President, Quebec Headquarters, RBC Royal Bank, and honorary chair Michèle Dionne, a Red Cross volunteer.
 
The co-chairs for the event are well aware of the important role the Red Cross plays in Quebec. Mr. Thibodeau paid tribute to the organization’s volunteers. “The results of this benefit mean that Red Cross teams can continue to provide relief around the clock whenever disaster strikes. Well trained and experienced volunteers are always on the alert, ready to respond and provide immediate assistance at the scene to the people affected,” he said.
 
For his part, Mr. Steinberg noted that “Red Cross help is not just in material form - it comes from deep in the heart, and is a vital source of comfort. When disaster strikes, and everything goes wrong, the Red Cross is there to provide a safety net.”
 
During the evening, the Director General of the Quebec Division of the Red Cross, Michel Léveillé, drew attention to the tremendous effort contributed by the organizers of the benefit. “It is an honour and a pleasure to enjoy the support of the co-chairs and our honorary chair in connection with the biggest event of its kind for the Red Cross in Canada.”
 
Outstanding partners and sponsors 
To make this event a success, the Red Cross was able to rely on outstanding partners and sponsors. Special thanks go to RBC Royal Bank, Norton Rose Fulbright, Power Corporation of Canada, Bell, the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, Domtar, National Bank and the SAQ.