An application to the Government of Ontario‘s Seniors Community Grant program was approved for the Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians (MFFC) for a maximum of $8,000. The grant for “Seniors’ Health, Fitness and Trip Project” will allow our ever growing membership of seniors to go on trips, learn brain games, Zumba and ballroom dancing.
The project objective is to explore Ontario’s historical places, promote/ maintain quality of life, self-worth, mental stimulation, physical activity, link to the outside world for seniors while providing opportunities for them to participate in the community through performances at cultural/fundraising events and at senior homes. The funding will enable up to 56 seniors from Markham and neighbouring communities to attend two trips, brain games, Zumba and ballroom lessons and perform at milestone events and senior homes.
Their first trip will be to the Hop on–Hop off Toronto trip on July 26-27, or July 28-29, or July 29-30, 2017.
“Support through the Seniors Community Grant program has benefitted thousands of seniors by helping them to stay active and involved in their communities, find volunteer opportunities and engage in continuous learning,” said Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs.
Dr. Helena Jaczek, MPP for Oak Ridges-Markham adds, “Congratulations to the Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians on receiving an Ontario Seniors Community Grant. The program will provide valuable opportunities for Markham seniors who wish to discover their province in a meaningful and interactive way.”
Established in 1989, the MFFC has been serving the residents of Markham and surrounding communities, providing a variety of programs for youth, adults and seniors of the community, as well as providing a community centre for people to celebrate important events.
Congratulations to the MFFC and its continued success.
MFFC Gets Project Funded by Ontario
Gawad Kalinga Canada Typhoon Haiyan Fundraising Update
Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians and the Alex Chiu Golf Tournament donated $70,000, that helped built the Markham GK Village which you will see in this video. "We opted to go for a Markham Village as a tangible and lasting symbol of the generosity of the people of Markham, beginning with our Mayor Frank Scarpitti, and our City Council, and the countless friends and supporters of our Filipino community", said Councillor Alex Chiu.
"It's our way of helping the victims of typhoon Haiyan in that part of the homeland to pick up their lives again, a legacy I hope that will connect Markham to Palo, Leyte for generations to come", he added.
Thanks to all the donors.
MFFC Celebrates 25 years!
The Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians celebrated 25 years in fashion at the Crystal Fountain Banquet Hall. The evening was filled with awards, photo-ops, music, food, performances and lots of dancing and door prizes! Emcees Karen Tan and Aaron James Abanador led the program with opening remarks from the gala chair, Lolita Bruneau and prayers by Father Albuen followed by entertainment. The MFFC Seniors donned their Hawaiian outfits and danced beautifully followed by the MFFC Youth Performing Arts Group who performed a Beatles medley. The seniors returned for another round of Line dancing. The event’s highlight was the awarding of the 2014 Most Distinguished Achievement Award and the recipients were Dr. Mario Andres (Professions and Community Service), Ma-Anne Dionisio (Performing Arts), Rafael Fabregas (Professional), CTV’s Melissa Grelo (TV Broadcasting and Journalism), Eric Tappenden (Business and Industry) and Mayor Frank Scarpitti (Public Service). The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to a surprised Alex Chiu for all his years of service to the community. Eric Tappenden of Chapel Ridge Funeral Home presented the MFFC with a cheque for $2,700. The Alex Chiu Golf Tournament also donated $10,000 to the MFFC to support its programs. Closing remarks were given by MFFC Chair Yoly Ladines. Congratulations to all the awardees and to MFFC for their continued success.
MFFC is 25 years old!
The Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians is celebrating 25 years of success in Ontario. The formal gala event will be held on November 7, 2014 starting at 6:30pm at Crystal Fountain Banquet Hall at 60 McDowell Gate, Markham with tickets at $50 each. The highlight of the gala is the presentation of the 2014 MFFC Distinguished Achievement Awards. This award is intended to recognize individuals who achieved distinction in their field of endeavor, bringing honor and prestige to the Markham community but have availed themselves to the community for community services. The Call for Nominations deadline is October 15, 2014.
The Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians is a non-profit organization that began in 1989 and committed to the promotion and preservation of the Filipino culture and heritage through dialogue, educational, social and cultural activities due to the growing number of Filipino Canadians in Markham. Right at its inception, this organization planted its roots deeply within the Town of Markham (now deemed City of Markham) with its annual celebrations of Philippine Independence Day at Civic Centre, fundraising events and various charities. Headed by a group of inspiring and never tiring individuals, this volunteer group has managed to increase its profile and in 1994, the MFFC was incorporated in the province of Ontario. It continues its support of activities in conjunction with the York Region Community Services Council, the Office of Child and Family Services, and the York Region District Health Council.
Member programs of the MFFC include youth, senior and community based demands for seminars. The youth program began as a 10 member choral group and became a broadway style performing arts assembly. The seniors group has several activities geared for them like dancing, social gatherings, casino trips and seminars. Seminars for the community are available every year for immigration, accounting, computer classes and job fairs. Their fundraising events have raised hHHHundreds of thousands of dollars in funds and goods to help not just Filipinos in the Philippines, but also local groups in Canada and other global disasters.
To attend this unforgettable evening, you may call Lolita Bruneau at 905-471-1560 and Anna Torres at 416-335-9142.
MFFC Receives Grant for Choir Program for Seniors
The Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians (MFFC) is launching a new choir program called “Seniors in Symphony”. The program has received a federal grant of $24,896 from the New Horizons for Seniors program and support of local community organizations.
The Seniors in Symphony program will provide an opportunity for seniors and older adults to get involved in the community through music and choral singing. The program is open to every one age 55 and up. It aims to bring together people of all gender and cultural backgrounds through the love of music. The MFFC is currently looking for choir members or volunteers to participate in this free program. “Music and singing have been proven to have numerous psychological, physiological, and social benefits for older adults. We are calling for people who would like to help us make a positive impact in the well-being of our seniors in the community.” says, Louie Locsin, Public Relations Officer at MFFC.
The Seniors in Symphony will be led by a professional choir director. The repertoire includes a wide range of musical styles, including classics, spirituals, folk, Broadway, and pop music. The practice sessions will be held every Thursdays, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the MFFC Centre in Markham.
An opening celebration and a dinner dance will be held on June 2, 2012 at 6:30 p.m. at the centre located at 1151 Denison St., Unit 10/11, Markham. For more information about this new program, please contact Yoli Ladines 905-284-6191 or Bina Comendador at 905-887-5309.
Local Organization Hosts a Free Dinner and Seminar about Being Prepared
The Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians (MFFC) in partnership with Chapel Ridge Funeral Home will be hosting a free dinner seminar entitled, ‘Being Prepared Made Simple’. The session will provide valuable information and advice on wills and estate planning, funeral pre-planning, Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security, and other related topics.
Dinner includes delicious Filipino cuisine and admission is free of charge.
At the event, participants will learn topics such as:
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How to protect your estate from legal issues and save on taxes
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How to establish wills, trusts, and powers of attorney
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Preparing emotionally and financially for an unexpected death in the family
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Ways to save money through eligible funeral plans
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Applying for benefits available under the Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security
The event will be held at the MFFC Centre located at 1151 Denison St, Units 10-11, Markham on Monday, May 9, 2011. The seminar will start at 6:30 PM till 8:30 PM.
The MFFC is a non-profit organization committed to the promotion and preservation of culture and heritage. The centre provides programs geared towards education, cultural, and health activities for people of all ages living in Markham and the surrounding areas.
To register for this free event, please contact Ester Toribio at 905-294-9350 or Lolita Bruneau at 905-471-1560. Book now as space is limited!
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For additional information about this media release, contact:
Louie Locsin at 416-569-3936 or Ester Toribio at 905-294-9350
Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians
Getting musical for Philippines relief
Nov 23, 2009 11:54 AM (article from Yorkregion.com)
The Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians presents The Taste of Broadway-The Classics on Dec. 9 at the Markham Theatre.
Funds raised will go to the victims of the typhoons in the Philippines.
All performers and directors are donating their time and talents for this good cause.
Tickets are $ 35, $45 and $ 250.
The $250 will receive a receipt of $215 from Global Medic.
Don't miss the surprise performance of Mayor Frank Scarpitti in the Sound of Music.
For more information, call Lolita at 905-471-1560.
Concert raises funds to help typhoon-ravaged Philippines
Nov 11, 2009 08:30 AM (article from Yorkregion.com)
The Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians will present A Taste of Broadway – the Classics, a musical concert at Markham Theatre Dec. 9.
Organized to raise funds for typhoon victims in the Philippines, the show will feature selections from hit Broadway musicals including Cats, West Side Story, Oliver, Fiddler on the Roof, Annie and the Sound of Music.
It will showcase an array of Filipino-Canadian artists including the federation’s Youth Performing Arts Group and a special performance by Ma-Anne Dionisio who is best known for her starring role in Miss Saigon.
The federation held a similar event at the Richmond Hill Centre of Performing Arts last month.
The event sold out more than 600 tickets in one evening and received rave reviews from the public.
The concert starts at 7 p.m.
Tickets, $35 and $45, are available by calling Ramon Ombao at 416-358-3669, Ester Toribio at 905-294-9350 or at the Markham Theatre Box Office at 905-305-SHOW.
The federation has set up separate funds to support this relief effort.
If you are unable to attend the event and wish to make a donation, contact the Markham Federation of Filipino Canadians at 905-305-1320.
MFFC Fundraising for Typhoon Ketsana Victims
October 10, 2009, Markham -
In response to the recent disaster caused by Typhoon Ketsana in the Philippines, the MFFC has organized fundraising activities to help to aid the hundreds of victims affected by calamity. MFFC along with the Alex Chiu Charities has also appealed for government support to help their fellow Filipinos affected by the disaster in the Philippines. The Town of Markham approved a grant of $7,500 to support the relief efforts.
Donations for goods such as towels, blankets; canned goods; and other personal items (such as soap and toothbrushes and toothpaste) are also accepted at any of the Markham Fire Stations until October 25. A separate fund has been set-up for monetary donations by the MFFC. Monies will be channeled through Global Medic to help provide thousands of people with clean drinking water for people seeking aid in the affected areas.