Jake gives big in York Mills charity

[attach]3234[/attach]Young ladies with wings were buzzing about and an eight-foot-tall bear danced with children as the DJ played pop tunes.

The first annual Jake’s Gigantic Give was held last month.

All around kids were examining toys and crafts but they weren’t choosing items to add to their wish list — they were picking out gifts for less fortunate children.

“This is our 10th year of planning events, but this is our first year of doing this shopping for others,” said Ellen Schwartz, who envisioned and organized the unique fundraiser with her husband Jeff.

The couple’s eldest son, 13-year-old Jacob, suffers from a neurodegenerative disorder known as Canavan disease. When he was very young, they started the Jacob’s Ladder Foundation, which raises awareness of and funds for neurological research and genetic screening. To date, the foundation has raised over $2 million.

[attach]3235[/attach]Tickets for Jake’s Gigantic Give sold for $25 with proceeds going directly to the foundation.

“The funds from today go to Jacob’s Ladder’s efforts at SickKids, but the gifts go to all the other charities,” Schwartz said.

Starbucks coffee and snacks were available at no cost for those in attendance. Even usage of the empty jewellery store on Lesmill Road where the event was held was provided free of charge. The toys that kids picked out were donated to the fundraiser knowing that they would then go to places such as the Chum City Christmas Wish or Jewish Family and Child Services, among others.

“It’s kids helping kids and charity helping charity,” Schwartz said.

Jacob was smiling throughout the giveaway as guests took pictures of him and his family members. The Schwartzes hope the event not only helps needy children and those like Jacob who live with an illness, but instils positive values in the children taking part.

“I really wanted kids to understand what it meant when they were creating a gift for others,” Schwartz said. “I just really believe if we teach children at a young age the power of giving, it’ll resonate throughout their lifetime.”