* The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of Canada
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) represents a group of chronic intestinal disorders of which Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis are the most common. Crohn’s disease is characterized by inflammation which may involve any part of the gastrointestinal system from mouth to anus. Neither surgery nor drugs offer a cure and recurrences are common. Ulcerative Colitis attacks the lining of the large bowel (colon). The disease can be associated with life- threatening complications including cancer. For the most part, the disease is controlled by medication. Surgical removal of the colon, which is curative, is reserved for complicated cases.
Despite important differences between Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, both share certain symptoms including diarrhea, abdominal pain and rectal bleeding. The natural history of both diseases is characterized by unpredictable flare-ups ranging from mild and easily manageable to severe and debilitating. While IBD can be present at any age, there is a peak incidence between the ages of 15 and 35. The physical and emotional impact on children and young adults can be particularly devastating as physical growth and nutritional status are often significantly compromised. A second incidence peak occurs in people aged 45 to 55. Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis display a worldwide distribution and it is noteworthy that Canada has one of the highest incidences of IBD. Overall, the major impact of Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis is on the quality of life of those affected. As society has attached a stigma to the discussion of bowels and bowel habits, many people seem embarrassed or unwilling to discuss what is a comparatively common disease. Medical researchers have pursued a number of infectious, genetic, allergic, psychogenic and immunological theories as to the cause of IBD, yet none have been conclusive to date. What is clear is that there are major abnormalities in the immune system in IBD.
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of Canada (CCFC) is committed to finding the cure for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis through funding medical research and by providing education programs for patients, their families, health professionals and the general public.
* The Alliance of Cultural Communities for Equality in the Health and Social Services
The Alliance of Cultural Communities for Equality in the Health and Social Services (A.C.C.E.S.S.S.) is an association of ethno-cultural community organizations committed to improving the accessibility and application of health care and social services to persons residing within these communities since 1987.
* Lamplighters Children’s Leukemia-Cancer Foundation
Lamplighters Children’s Leukemia-Cancer Foundation is a volunteer group of families and friends working out of the Montreal Children’s Hospital. They help children suffering from malignant diseases by creating the best healing environment possible. Their accomplishments include a cancer-treatment ward, an outpatient treatment clinic and the purchase of specialized equipment.
* Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir
Perpetual Scholarship for Distinction in the Arts
Established in 1995 to honor the late Rev. Dr. Charles H. Este, who served Union United Church, in St-Henri, from 1923 to 1968, this scholarship assists students in pursuit of excellence in the Arts. The Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir was founded there in September 1982.
* Share the Warmth Foundation
Share the Warmth Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 1990 to help the homeless with food and clothing. Today, it assists over three thousand needy people a month including those who are on social assistance, pensioners, and hungry school children. The foundation services the needy in the southwest of Montreal which includes Pointe St-Charles, Little Burgundy, St-Henri, Verdun, and N.D.G.
* Lansdowne Center
Lansdowne Center, founded in 1972, has helped students from kindergarten to elementary, through high school, CEGEP, and University, in English and French, in Montreal and on the West Island, who are having problems with their school work. Their services are given by tutors who are teachers trained in Special Education. They work on a one-to-one basis, an individualized program which deals directly with the needs of each student; giving them the competence and confidence to complete their academic requirements.
* Learning Associates of Montreal
Learning Associates of Montreal is a non-profit center founded in 1991 by a group of professionals dedicated to helping children and families cope with problems associated with learning disabilities.
* St-James United Church Drop-In Center
St-James United Church Drop-In Center has been in operation for nearly 10 years. This community outreach program provides over 15,000 meals a year to Montreal’s homeless and streetwalkers.