The Order Sons of Italy of Canada works diligently to promote their mission statement set forth many years ago.  Their main focus is to help those in need.  The various lodges raise funds for charities in their respective cities.  In 1990 the Order adopted the Thalassemia Foundation as their pet charity.  Thalassemia that afflicts people of Italian, Greek and Asian origin is an inherited blood disease affecting the normal production of hemoglobin in red blood cells.   Thus far with contributions from all the lodges the Order Sons of Italy has contributed over $150,000 to the Thalassemia Foundation alone.

In 2002 at a Thalassemia Foundation Gala in Toronto, the Order was presented with a plaque in recognition of our efforts in raising money for this worthwhile cause.

On February 14, 2004 the foundation held their annual Thalassemia Valentine's Gala.  There were over 550 guest in attendance.  Members of Grand Council were in attendance and we presented the foundation a check for $9600.

The charity work our members do in the cities they live is commendable and I as National Charity Chairperson for the Order am very proud to belong to this great organization.

 

Josie Cumbo
National Charity Chairperson
Order Sons of Italy of Canada