CANFAR Celebrates Bloor Street Entertains' 15th Anniversary in Style

CANFAR's Bloor Street Entertains is the Foundation's largest annual fundraiser and assists the charity in its front-line efforts as the only Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating HIV and AIDS through research. CANFAR also supports a program of HIV and AIDS prevention, education and awareness initiatives. In Canada, the number of people infected with HIV is growing, and more than one quarter of the 67,000 HIV positive Canadians are unaware they are HIV positive. Statistics like these highlight that now, more than ever, CANFAR's efforts are necessary to eliminate HIV and AIDS both at home and abroad.

"HIV and AIDS is still a very real problem both in Canada and throughout the world," said Christopher Bunting, President and CEO of CANFAR. "Thirty years after the first AIDS diagnosis, we are still searching for a cure. As a nation we cannot underestimate the severity of this epidemic and must continue our vital research to find a cure for HIV and AIDS."

In recognition of the 15th anniversary, CANFAR is pleased to announce its Honorary Patrons, Mr. W. Galen Weston and the Honourable Hilary M. Weston. Additionally, this year the gala is chaired and vice-chaired by Janice O'Born, Chairman of The Printing House Charitable Office and Tristan Michela, Executive Vice-President of CanDeal, respectively. New this year, CANFAR's Bloor Street Entertains will treat its guests to an exclusive after-dinner show at the Royal Conservatory of Music's Koerner Hall. The Show will provide guests with an intimate evening of exceptional musical performances and a live auction featuring exclusive items. Performers for the Show include award-winning recording artist and CANFAR Youth Spokesperson Keshia Chante.

ABOUT CANFAR

The Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research is Canada's only independent charitable foundation dedicated to eliminating AIDS through research. By funding promising Canadian HIV and AIDS research and spreading awareness through education campaigns, CANFAR is working to end AIDS globally. Since 1987, CANFAR has awarded $17 million to HIV and AIDS research projects. Visit www.BloorStreetEntertains.ca or www.CANFAR.com for more information.

lpatton@webershandwick.com