Canada’s insurance industry raised more than $440,000 at the 31st Annual Starlight Insurance Gala in support of the Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada.
Themed “An Evening in Paris”, the sold-out event drew over 600 industry professionals. Proceeds will go toward Starlight Canada’s hospital-to-home programs, which deliver non-medical support to children with serious illnesses through in-hospital services, family outings, and home-based initiatives.
Held at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, the event marked the highest fundraising total in the Gala’s history. The 2025 event continued a pattern of year-over-year growth in fundraising totals. The Gala raised $352,750 in 2022, followed by $361,550 in 2023, and $377,772 in 2024. This year’s total of more than $440,000 sets a new benchmark for the campaign.
Attendees contributed through a silent auction featuring over 100 donated items and two raffles supported by the Air Canada Foundation.
According to a statement, fundraising peaked following a presentation by 12-year-old Cristiano and his mother, Francine, who shared their experience navigating complex medical challenges since his birth. Their remarks prompted guests to fund over 90 Wishes, which are gifts or experiences granted to seriously ill children, setting a new single-event record.
Stephen Hunter, CEO of Royalton Resorts, played a key role in the evening’s results by personally funding 10 Wishes and donating the grand prize for the Royalton Sweepstakes: an all-inclusive trip to Royalton Saint Lucia. The contribution supported continued donations during the event.
“Thanks to the leadership and compassion of insurance professionals and companies alike, we’ve been able to bring light into some of the darkest moments for thousands of families across Canada,” said Brian Bringolf, CEO of Starlight Canada. “We are sincerely grateful to every sponsor, committee member, and supporter who made this remarkable evening possible.”
Since its launch, the Starlight Insurance Gala has raised over $6.6 million to support Starlight Canada’s programming for children and families facing serious illness.
Fundraising is ongoing through the Royalton Sweepstakes, with proceeds supporting Starlight Canada's national initiatives. Tickets for the Royalton Saint Lucia prize are available at starlightroyaltonsweepstakes.org.
