Almost 1,300 'rats' support United Way in 5km scurry

TORONTO —Almost 1,300 runners from across the city, many in "cheesy" rat-inspired costumes, scurried up Bay Street and down Yonge Street in a 5km dash as part of this evening's 8th Annual Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way.

Pledges collected by these rat runners will go towards United Way Toronto's Community Fund, supporting its network of 200 health and social service agencies as well as its work in the city's 13 priority neighbourhoods.

"For its eighth consecutive year, Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way has brought a large number of enthusiastic runners and volunteers together in a common purpose," said Susan McIsaac, Vice-President of Resource Development at United Way Toronto. "Together, we can successfully address the root causes of our city's shared challenges to build a stronger community for all."

McIsaac was joined by Chris Hodgson, Executive Vice-President and Head of Domestic Personal Banking at Scotiabank.

"It's wonderful to see so many supporters participating in this year's event," said Hodgson. "Each year, hundreds of Scotiabank employees get involved in the Scotiabank Rat Race for United Way and we encourage all Torontonians to come together in support of an organization that continues to make a difference in our community."

Pre-race festivities at Scotia Plaza were led by guest emcee Rudy Blair from 680 news. Runners were treated to performances by the Pepsi Tropicana Steel Orchestra and comedy daredevil DynaMike. United Way agency YMCA Toronto led runners in an energetic warm up.

The 2008 Scotiabank Rat Race is made possible thanks to the generous support of title sponsor Scotiabank, prize sponsor Sony, runner's bag sponsor CEO TV and media sponsors the Globe and Mail, OneStop, 98.1 CHFI and 680 News.

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad. Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for its charitable donations and philanthropic activities, in 2007 the Bank provided more than $43 million in sponsorships and donations to a variety of projects and initiatives, primarily in the areas of healthcare, education, social services and arts and culture. Visit us at www.scotiabank.com.

Established in 1956, United Way Toronto is a registered charity and community impact organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening neighbourhoods across the city. United Way identifies needs and takes action to create a better, safer, stronger community through research, partnerships and support of a network of 200 health and social service agencies.

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Media contacts:

Caitlin Stidwill
United Way Toronto
416 777 1444 ex 396
cstidwill@uwgt.org

Livy Feldgajer
Scotiabank Public Affairs
416 866 6203
livy_feldgajer@scotiacapital.com