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​​Kudos: Richmond entrepreneur donates $540,000 to BC Children's Hospital Foundation

The $540,000 donation brings BC Children's Hospital a step closer to its goal of raising $2 million to transform diabetes care for children across the province. 
Nono Shen
Nono Shen

A small group of business leaders gathered at a Richmond home last week to raise more than $540,000 for the BC Children's Hospital Foundation. 

The outdoor gathering, hosted by Richmond businessman Peter Raju and his wife Usha, reflecting the theme "it takes a village." 

Their efforts also brings BC Children's Hospital a step closer to its goal of raising $2 million to transform diabetes care for children across the province. 

Raju told Richmond News that support is extremely important amid the pandemic since many families are still in need of help.

A limited number of guests were invited to the gathering - due to the COVID-19 restrictions - otherwise, more funds could have been raised, said Raju. 

All funds raised through the event will benefit the Diabetes Transformation Project, providing vital resources, support and training to families across the province with children who face challenges with their diabetes. 

According to a release sent out by BC Children's Hospital, 2,500 kids in B.C. live with diabetes and that number is expected to increase by 35 per cent by 2030 - making diabetes one of the fastest-growing childhood epidemics in the province. 

Young philanthropist Amari Raju, who is also a family member of Raju's family, kicked off the night with a donation of $50,000, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps to show support. 

Raju said he also invited his two-year-old granddaughter to the event in hopes of sharing the importance of helping others with her. 

"It's essential to encourage our young generation to understand the importance of helping others at an early age," said Raju, adding that "Plus, helping others make you feel good."