Britney finds a new way to raise funds for families.

Britney Colussi knows it’s important to stay strong and spread love during a difficult time. She learned this from her cousin, Michael.

Michael is living with Down syndrome, heart problems and nervous system issues, meaning he can’t walk, talk or eat on his own.

His strength is the inspiration behind The Michael D’Urso fund, formerly known as LivingStrongMD. Motivated to create “never-ending smiles,” LivingStrongMD was founded in 2015 by Britney Colussi in order to alleviate suffering, promote happiness and give hope to families with sick children.

LivingStrongMD has been fundraising for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Toronto and SickKids Foundation since 2015. Their most recent event, The Dream Bigger Gala in October 2019, raised over $100,000 for the two charities.

“COVID-19 has put a hold on events for this year, but that is okay. We are here to fight something bigger right now, and we can all do this together,” says Britney.

Britney was quick to reach out to RMHC Toronto, asking how she could help as this global pandemic continued to change the dynamics in the House and impact fundraising events. With our volunteer workforce temporarily suspended, and visitors to the House being limited, Britney started an online fundraising page to support the new Meals For Families program.

The Meals for Families program provides nutritious and safely catered dinners that are individually packaged and delivered to their rooms.

“Due to the circumstances placed on everyone during this crisis, I knew the way in which I could help would have to be virtually.”

Supporters like Britney are the reason RMHC Toronto can offer programs like Meals for Families. We truly could not do it without her. RMHC Toronto receives no government funding and relies primarily on donations, from events like Britney’s, to continue supporting families of seriously ill children.

Families need your help, too.

Please join our COVID-19 Response Campaign to support the immediate needs of families staying at RMHC Toronto, including:

  • Individually packaged non-perishable food;
  • A hot meal for a family;
  • Extra cleaning supplies for advanced cleaning procedures;
  • Gifts of Nights, providing compassionate hospitality for a family to stay together.

For ideas on fundraisers you can do virtually, check out our Host a Virtual Fundraising Event page.

Thank you so much to our fundraisers like Britney, who continue to support families by finding alternate ways to fundraise.