Sean Thomas鈥檚 grandmother was the inspiration behind Kids Can Help (KCH), a program that helps ailing children and their families.
鈥淚 founded the program after my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer,鈥� Thomas related, as he prepares to host the fifth annual KCH Silent Auction and Talent Show on Saturday at 91原创 Fundamental Elementary School.
鈥淚 saw how hard it was for her and our family,鈥� Thomas elaborated. 鈥淚 really wanted to do something to help, and I thought of kids and their families who were going through the same thing.鈥�
Thomas was eight years old when he launched the program in 2009. One hundred per cent of the funds raised from the program goes to BC Children鈥檚 Hospital.
Thomas noted that so far, KCH has raised more than $80,000, with the goal this year to top the $100,000 mark.
鈥淲e have grown to more than 30 members from 91原创, Surrey, White Rock, Cowichan Bay, and even Hawaii,鈥� Thomas said. 鈥淓ven though together our efforts are to raise money for the BC Children鈥檚 Hospital, we also hope to inspire other kids to want to make a difference either by joining us or doing something on their own.鈥�
Regarding the Dec. 5 show, Thomas said, 鈥淓very year is more successful, and this year we鈥檙e hoping it will be our most successful year yet. The PAC at the 91原创 Fundamental School has always been so generous and has left the gymnasium decorated after their Christmas Tea for our event, and it looks really festive.鈥�
Thomas said for the past five years, 91原创 has been 鈥渟o supportive鈥� of the show, adding that some businesses donate to the fundraiser every year.
鈥淲e all really appreciate what they do for us, and as our program and show grows, we hope we can give back to them in some way, too,鈥� Thomas said.
This show will celebrate Amy Dewolff, a member of the KCH team, and her recovery.
鈥淪he worked so hard to raise money for the hospital with us, but also became a patient and was in cancer treatment,鈥� Thomas said. 鈥淓veryone was so supportive at last year鈥檚 show but this year we can all celebrate now that she is doing great.鈥�
Thomas said the silent auction grows every year, with more than 100 items up for bids on Saturday.
鈥淭his year will be our biggest one so far. There is definitely something for everyone,鈥� Thomas saide.
There will be three 鈥渁mazing special guests,鈥� Thomas said, including the 91原创 Ukulele Ensemble.
Another performer is Shon Burnett, a finalist from the YTV show, The Next Star. 鈥淗e will be opening with five songs and signing autographs after the show,鈥� Thomas said.
And with Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens opening in theatres on Dec. 18, the 501st Legion Outer Rim Garrison fan group is at the show.
鈥淭he guests at our event will have an opportunity to have their photos taken with the characters,鈥� Thomas said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 by donation, and 100 per cent of the money goes to the BC Children鈥檚 Hospital.鈥�
Tickets are $5 but are limited and can be ordered by contacting Thomas at kidscanhelpkids@gmail.com.
