Porridge for Parkinson’s is an elegant morning fundraising event that features a brunch prepared and served by top Toronto chefs, a brunch-themed silent auction, and special guest speakers. The first Porridge for Parkinson’s breakfast in Toronto was held in 2007 and has now become a biennial event. Together, we have raised over $2.2 million in net proceeds, thanks to hundreds of sponsors, donors, guests, volunteers, and of course, our chefs!
The proceeds from our events fund groundbreaking research into the cause and cure for Parkinson’s. Since 2019, funds have been directed to the Parkinson’s Research Excellence Fund at the Edmond J Safra Program, at Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto Western Hospital, UHN.
Porridge for Parkinson’s began in Vancouver, Canada in 2001. Marg Meikle, a popular CBC radio host, developed Parkinson’s at the early age of 43 and was determined to do something to advance a cure for this progressive disease. Her symptoms were least active in the morning, and with this in mind, she started a low-key breakfast in her home to raise money for Parkinson’s research. Over the years, Marg’s event raised $1.6 million dollars and inspired similar fundraisers in Canada.
The first Porridge for Parkinson’s in Toronto took place in 2007, when Marg’s friend Sheila Knox wanted to support her initiative. Featuring celebrity chefs and special guests from media and medicine, the Toronto event has been held biennially ever since, netting more than $2.2 million dollars for Parkinson’s research. Porridge for Parkinson’s continues to grow in size and profile, attracting donors and sponsors who are aware of the increasing incidence of Parkinson’s in an aging population.
We are a dedicated group of volunteers, passionate about good food and raising money for Parkinson’s research.
If you’re interested in becoming involved, please email:
Please contact the committee about corporate or individual sponsorships—we would love to hear from you. We offer sponsors creative ways to support Parkinson’s research and get engaged in Porridge for Parkinson’s Toronto events, please email:
