MISSISSAUGA — The 24th Annual Trillium Diwali Gala, Canada’s largest and longest-running Diwali fundraising celebration, lit up Mississauga on October 17, raising an unprecedented $1.3 million in support of the future Shah Family Hospital for Women and Children and The Peter Gilgan Mississauga Hospital — both part of Trillium Health Partners (THP).
Hosted at the Pearson Convention Centre, the sold-out event brought together more than 1,100 distinguished guests, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, and Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish, along with sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders. The record-setting fundraiser marks a milestone moment for Trillium Health Partners Foundation as it continues its mission to transform the future of health care in the Greater Toronto Area and beyond.
“Being able to exceed our fundraising goal for this event is a remarkable accomplishment and speaks to the unwavering dedication of our community,” said Caroline Riseboro, President and CEO of Trillium Health Partners Foundation. “This year’s funds will help build Ontario’s first hospital entirely dedicated to women’s and children’s health and Canada’s largest hospital, ensuring world-class care for generations to come.”
The evening raised more than $283,000 specifically for three new OmniBeds for THP’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) — surpassing the initial goal of two. These state-of-the-art units combine an incubator and warmer in one, creating a safe environment for premature infants and allowing critical access for medical teams.
Over the past 24 years, the Trillium Diwali Gala has raised more than $16 million for Trillium Health Partners, which includes Mississauga Hospital, Credit Valley Hospital, and Queensway Health Centre. The region’s population is projected to grow by 45% by 2041, making the expansion of local health care infrastructure more vital than ever.
The gala was co-chaired by Dr. Sumit Jhas (Medical Chair) and Sunita Vyas (Community Chair), with entertainment featuring performances by Vidya Vox, Nihal Singh, and Sampradaya Dance Creations, as well as a special rendition of the national anthem by Sonaali Goel. Global News anchor Colin D’Mello returned for his seventh year as emcee.
Guests enjoyed a vibrant evening filled with cultural performances, fine Indian cuisine by The Host, and a luxury silent auction featuring travel experiences, jewelry, and exclusive event tickets.
The event’s success was made possible through generous corporate sponsors, including Mortgage Company of Canada (Presenting Sponsor), TD (Emerald Sponsor), Pearson Convention Centre (Venue Sponsor), IAMGOLD (Photobooth Sponsor), Dilawri (Valet Sponsor), and EllisDon and PCL Construction (Dessert Sponsors), among others.
“Raising the necessary funds for Canada’s largest hospital is a team effort, and our community has stepped up in remarkable ways,” said Karli Farrow, President and CEO of Trillium Health Partners. “The success of this gala demonstrates what’s possible when people come together to invest in a healthier, stronger future for all.”
For more information, visit www.trilliumdiwali.ca.