Mon Sheong Foundation proudly celebrated its annual fundraising gala, the Cathay Ball, tonight at Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre & Spa, bringing together close to 700 guests for an unforgettable evening. This year’s theme, “A Thousand and One Nights,” marks a significant milestone, celebrating Mon Sheong’s achievement of operating a total of 1,001 long-term care beds, making it the largest non-profit operator of long-term care beds in Ontario.
More than 20 government officials from three levels of the government attended the event to congratulate Mon Sheong on reaching the new milestone. They included Hon. Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources; Hon. Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Minister of Long-Term Care; Hon. Raymond Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility; Hon. Paul Calandra, Minister of Education; Mayor Frank Scarpitti, City of Markham; and Mayor David West, City of Richmond Hill. All proceeds from the event will go toward the “Because We Care” capital campaign to build new long-term care centres.
Remarks by Mr. Tim Kwan, Chairman of Mon Sheong Foundation
Chairman Mr. Tim Kwan of the Mon Sheong Foundation presenting plaques
“There are currently over 48,000* people in Ontario waiting for a long-term care bed. Among them, the combined waiting list for Mon Sheong’s five long-term care homes has exceeded 10,000. Mon Sheong Dr. Paul Woo Long-Term Care Centre, which opened only three weeks ago, already has more than 1,400 people on its waiting list, highlighting the strong demand for long-term care beds,” said Mr. Tim Kwan, Chairman of Mon Sheong Foundation. “This pressing situation has motivated Mon Sheong to actively plan and build more long-term care centres. A new Markham long-term care centre with 320 beds has been topped out and is currently undergoing interior build-out works. It is scheduled for completion in 2026. A new 288-bed long-term care centre in Richmond Hill is poised to commence construction, pending government approval. Mon Sheong is calling on the community’s support so that more people in need can receive care as soon as possible.”
Remarks by Mr. Thomas Liu, President of the Mon Sheong Foundation
The sponsor received an appreciation plaque.
“The theme “A Thousand and One Nights” represents not only the milestone of operating 1,001 long-term care beds, but also the stories of every resident and their family,” said Cathay Ball 2025 Co-chair Mr. David Cheng and Mr. Jeffrey Mah. “For over 60 years, Mon Sheong has served the community with compassion. With the support of the community, we strive to provide more long-term care beds, making the dream of quality care a reality for seniors.”
Presenting Sponsor TD Bank Group expressed their delight in supporting Mon Sheong. “Mon Sheong Foundation helps seniors build meaningful connections, feel a sense of belonging, and engage with their local communities,” said Rachael Wong, Associate Vice President, TD Bank Group. “Through the TD Ready Commitment, TD Bank Group is proud to continue to support their work and the positive impact it has on people’s lives.”
In line with the theme, the committee planned an enchanting evening for our guests. From décor that created a magical, dreamlike atmosphere, to an exciting lineup of live performances, every detail was thoughtfully arranged. Highlights included a graceful musical performance by His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMSC) York Band to welcome guests, a breathtaking fire show by NorthFIRE Circus, a dynamic belly dance performance by Hips Don’t Lie, and a live music performance by the renowned Toronto band, Michael Vieira Band. Guests were fully immersed in a night of rhythm, energy, and wonder.
The Silent Auction was a highlight as ever. This year’s auction showcased a diverse selection of over 200 curated items, including: business class round-trip air tickets, cruise packages, fine jewelry and accessories, dried seafood and delicacies, gourmet dining vouchers, fashion and lifestyle gifts, premium wines, and more. For the first time, an online auction platform was introduced, making bidding easier and smoother. The lucky winner of the special draw took home two Air Canada round-trip economy tickets to any systemwide destination— a highlight that added even more excitement to the evening.
Mon Sheong is truly grateful for the generous support of its sponsors, in particular Presenting Sponsor TD Bank Group; Diamond Sponsor MediSystem Pharmacy; Platinum Sponsors Concord Adex and Scotiabank; and many other valued sponsors. The Foundation also extends heartfelt thanks to the more than 70 volunteers and Youth Group members who helped make the event a success.
Photo Highlights of “Mon Sheong Night”
Journalist and Photographer: Lin Fengyun, Easycan Inc.