The Snowsuit Fund Kicks Off 43rd Season in Dedication to Founders Joan Gullen (1930-2022) and Ralph Tannis (1944-2024)
- KoW Connected
- Oct 24, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 31
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OTTAWA, October 24, 2024: Today, The Snowsuit Fund, the Ottawa charity that provides disadvantaged children with warm winter outerwear, officially kicked off its 43rd season with special acknowledgement of the charity’s founders Joan Gullen and Ralph Tannis, who passed away in 2022 and 2024 respectively.
Forty-two years ago, Joan and Ralph recognized that many Ottawa children from poorer families had no warm winter clothing. Both then and now, low-income families in Ottawa had to prioritize basic need items such as shelter, utilities, and food over buying snowsuits for their children. Drawing on their community contacts for support, within a few short weeks, the duo raised the funds necessary to purchase and distribute 800 snowsuits to Ottawa children in need. In the spirit of Joan and Ralph’s enduring legacy, The Snowsuit Fund will distribute close to 17,000 snowsuits this year, powered by community support and volunteers.
“The Snowsuit Fund continues to be a beacon of hope, thanks to our dedicated staff, committed Board members and volunteers, and the unwavering support of our donors and community and corporate partners”, says Martin Masse, Chairperson of The Snowsuit Fund.
Active volunteers, board members and staff were joined by members of the Tannis and Gullen families, and numerous past volunteer board members. Prominent local lawyer Lawrence Greenspon and professional sports communicator Sylvie Bigras served as emcees. Representatives from Long-time corporate supporters Brown’s Cleaners and Tim Hortons were on hand to share their stories and acknowledge with gratitude the leadership of the founding members. Gabriel Pizza prepared and donated Fat Albert’s style Submarine Sandwiches while Tim Hortons offered baked items for the occasion.
Stéphanie Plante, Rideau Vanier Ward Councillor, who once relied on The Snowsuit Fund for her child, recounted her personal experience: “For two winters, The Snowsuit Fund was there when we needed a hand-up.”
To kick off the new season of community fundraising, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe officially proclaimed Oct. 28 - Nov. 3, 2024, as The Snowsuit Fund Week, just as earlier predecessor Mayor Marion Dewar did when the organization was founded in 1982.
Today’s campaign launch celebrated the generosity and compassion of the community and corporate partners who continue to support The Snowsuit Fund in countless ways. Thanks to generous Community Match Partners, including Intega IT, CLV Group, Giant Tiger and the Souad Tannis Family, individual donations received before December 31st will have double the impact.
Throughout the upcoming season, many not-for-profit and corporate groups are scheduled to volunteer at the depot, including Lucie Andlauer and The Ottawa Senators Wives, Brazeau Seller Law, Compugen, Deloitte, Intact Insurance and Price Waterhouse Coopers, to name a few.
A Season of Signature Events
The Snowsuit Fund’s schedule of signature fundraising events includes:
Saturday, November 30th : 5th Annual Dinner Party in a Box, a luxurious at-home dining experience for two - this year with an Italian theme, curated by Beckta with signature cocktails, premium wine and beer as well as luxury gift items – all beautifully packaged and home-delivered for enjoyment with family, work colleagues or friends. On sale now at snowsuitfund.com
Draw Date: January 17th: 4th Annual Snowsuit Fund 5050 for The City produced in collaboration with Chez 106, KiSS 105.3, and Country 101.1. Prior year jackpots have exceeded $500,000 with weekly early- bird prizing from Canadian Tire Ottawa Store Owners. Proceeds are shared with BGC Ottawa. On sale November 25th at snowsuitfund.com
Wednesday, February 12th , 2025: SnowBall, A Cool Winters Eve- an annual all-inclusive cocktail party boasting sumptuous décor, multiple chef stations and bars, live music, auctions, beauty bars, and more. On sale soon at Snowsuit fund.com
Those who wish to donate, purchase tickets or find options for helping including group volunteering, should visit snowsuitfund.com.
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About the Snowsuit Fund:
The Snowsuit Fund purchases and distributes nearly 17,000 snowsuits annually to children 15 years and younger from low-income families living in Ottawa. Every child deserves a warm snowsuit to play outside, stay healthy, and feel a sense of belonging. Sadly, for many families, purchasing warm winter clothing is a necessity they cannot afford, as basic needs like food and utilities take priority. A snowsuit can do more than just protect against the cold—it can change lives. A single snowsuit can open the door to outdoor play, fostering better health, increased confidence, and even improved academic performance. It can give a child self-esteem, pride, and a sense of inclusion—qualities that not only benefit the child but also strengthen the family and, ultimately, the entire community. The Snowsuit Fund is almost entirely powered by volunteers and the community. The Snowsuit Fund receives no government funding and relies entirely on the generosity of countless caring groups and individuals who give their time, money and talent to keep our doors open.
For more information:
Mary Jelley
KoW Connected
613-791-6703