Niagara, ON, March 5, 2025 — The 2025 Brick Vendor Fair & Awards Gala unfolded with grandeur, bringing together vendors, associates, and partners in a celebration of excellence and collaboration. This year’s event prominently featured Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), highlighting the deep-rooted partnership between The Brick and CMN in advancing children’s healthcare across Canada.
The Vendor Fair: Showcasing Innovation and Introducing Champions
The expansive hall buzzed with activity as The Brick’s vendors showcased their latest products and incentives. Among the standout moments was the introduction of the 2025 Champions—the inspiring young ambassadors representing children’s hospitals nationwide. For the first time, the Champions were confirmed ahead of the event, allowing for prominent signage featuring their photos and biographies. This exclusive preview was met with enthusiasm, as attendees gained early insight into the faces of The Brick’s 2025 campaigns.
In addition to the Champions, attendees were introduced to exciting new products, including a Brickley comforter set and a Brickley Bear with customizable outfits. These items will soon be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting children’s hospitals. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with associates expressing appreciation for both the early introduction to the Champions and the new fundraising products.
Many Brick associates also took the opportunity to share their store’s fundraising achievements, with some sharing their personal connections to local children’s hospitals—a testament to the deep impact of The Brick’s commitment to community health.
The Awards Gala: Stories of Resilience and Generosity
The evening transitioned into the Awards Gala, where heartfelt stories and remarkable generosity took center stage. Aaliyah, the 2025 Champion from McMaster Children’s Hospital (MacKids), captivated the audience with her journey, sharing the powerful moment of ringing the bell to mark the end of her treatments. In a moving tribute, The Brick team placed bells on every table, allowing attendees to ring them in solidarity, creating an unforgettable moment of shared celebration.
Aaliyah was supported throughout the evening by Milaina Wright, Director of Partnerships at MacKids, who represented her hospital foundation in the region.
Following Aaliyah’s speech, Adam Starkman, President & CEO of CMN Canada, addressed the audience, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. Together, The Brick’s President Darci Walker, Community Relations Manager Kim Kennedy, Adam, and Aaliyah took the stage to present awards to The Brick’s top CMN fundraisers, celebrating their dedication to supporting children’s healthcare.
The evening culminated with The Brick’s remarkable donation of over $3 million to CMN, a testament to the company’s enduring commitment to helping children across Canada receive the care they need.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Partnerships for a Brighter Future
The 2025 Brick Vendor Fair & Awards Gala was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a launchpad for future initiatives. As CMN and The Brick continue their longstanding partnership, exciting campaigns and activations are on the horizon, ensuring even greater impact for children’s hospitals nationwide.
What’s Ahead in 2025:
- April: 2025 Champion signage will appear in Brick stores across Canada.
- Spring: Launch of new charity products in stores, including the Brickley comforter set and Brickley Bear outfits.
- June: The Brick’s Tent Sale—a key fundraising event supporting CMN hospitals.
- Fall: The return of the Buy More, Save More, Give More campaign, culminating in Care to Share Day in October.
- Winter: The Brick’s New Year’s Run— registration launching this fall.
As The Brick and CMN move forward together, the focus remains on driving impact, inspiring generosity, and ensuring that every child has access to the specialized care they deserve.
