On September 19, nearly 200 Buddha’s Light community members, families, and volunteers gathered at Centennial Park for the annual Toronto VEGRUN Charity Run, co-hosted by
the Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto Chapter and Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto.

The bright morning event raised over $11,000 CAD in support of pediatric healthcare and environmental sustainability. All proceeds from this year’s run will benefit the ErinoakKids
Centre for Treatment and Development, Ontario’s largest children’s treatment centre, funding vital programs for youth with autism, communication disorders, and physical development
needs.

Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, kicked off the event by reflecting on the collective spirit of the morning. Whether running, walking, or donating, every participant shows a deep care for personal health, our planet, and our community," she shared. "Every mindful choice we make creates lasting joy and wellbeing for ourselves and
others."

The run brought together participants of all generations—from octogenarians to infants in strollers. Runners and walkers wound along Centennial Park’s scenic trail, cheered on by local
wildlife and enthusiastic supporters. Off the track, attendees participated in pre-run warm-ups and team games organized by the BLIA Young Adult Division (YAD), as well as signed plant-
based diet pledges at the Vege Plan A booth.

BLIA Toronto Chapter President Kevin Cao emphasized that VEGRUN stands on three core pillars: encouraging physical fitness, promoting eco-friendly living through plant-based choices,
and uplifting local children in need. Fiona D’Silva-Coelho, Manager at ErinoakKids, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the runners and donors. She noted that the community’s generosity provides direct, life-changing support for hundreds of local families relying on essential care.

Through shared strides and generous hearts, Toronto’s Buddha's Light community demonstrated how fitness, environmental action, and charitable giving can unite to brighten the lives of children across the Greater Toronto Area.