Starlight Salutes The Ardene Foundation!

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As one of North America’s leading lifestyle and clothing brands, Ardene has always been dedicated to empowering communities. For over a decade, the Ardene Foundation has been a source of hope and compassion, helping families with seriously ill children find moments of happiness and strength alongside Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada, and this holiday season is no different.

As the cold weather sets in, the Ardene Foundation is igniting warmth and hope by raising vital funds for Starlight Canada. Until January 5, 2025, Ardene’s dedicated staff are collecting donations both in-store and online. Every dollar raised directly supports hospitalized and seriously ill children, reflecting the Ardene Foundation’s commitment to strengthening communities and uplifting their most vulnerable members.

The Ardene Foundation’s 2024 impact is a heartwarming example of how compassion can create magic! This year, Ardene staff presented over 30 local hospitals with 45 in-hospital gaming systems–from Fun Centers and Starlight Handhelds to the latest Starlight VRs.

“By sponsoring these gaming systems, you’ve given countless young patients a source of joy, distraction, and comfort during difficult times,” shared Lindsay, a Certified Child Life Specialist from Niagara Health – St. Catharines Hospital. “Your contribution has made a lasting, positive impact on their hospital experience, and we’re deeply grateful for your commitment to supporting children’s health and happiness.”

Committed to supporting hospitalized kids in their communities, they also sponsored over 130 Play From Hospital Shipments, sending boxes bursting with toys, games, and fun activities to more than 100 hospitals across Canada. These thoughtfully curated surprises transformed hospital rooms into playrooms, giving kids a sense of normalcy, laughter, and comfort—because every child deserves the chance to play, no matter where they are.

Ardene staff volunteering at our Trick or Suite event!

Beyond the hospital walls, the Ardene Foundation’s dedication to making dreams come true shines brightly for Starlight families across the country as a national Great Escapes Wish Sponsor. Through year-round experiences like thrilling Motomax excursions and enchanting Trick or Suite events, the Ardene Foundation brings adventure to seriously ill children and their families, offering them a chance to embrace life beyond medical treatments.

Their generosity goes even further, as Ardene team members regularly roll up their sleeves to volunteer at Starlight events. Whether assembling loot bags filled with toys, games, and treats or lending a hand to create magical experiences on-site, their hands-on support adds an extra touch of care and love. This personal involvement transforms every event into an unforgettable celebration for the kids and families who attend.

In a truly special moment, the Ardene Foundation recently invited Starlight kids to take part in their Ardene Studio artist program, a collaborative space to celebrate art, expression, and creativity. Together, they painted a beautiful mural–a powerful and lasting tribute to the resilience and creativity of these children–which is now displayed in Ardene’s flagship store in Montreal.

A warm thank you to Ardene, the Ardene Foundation, and their generous customers for bringing light, laughter, and hope to families with seriously ill children for over a decade. Your kindness is a gift beyond measure, filling our hearts with strength and joy when it’s needed most.