Sonia Facchini walked into the Hospital For Sick Children in September carrying a $1,900 cheque.

She says she plans to do the same this year, but with a bigger gift in hand.

“We’re hoping to surpass that $1,900,” she said last week. “But if not, our main goal is just to have fun, raise some money and have it in memory of someone who contributed to the community.”

On July 8, an expected 20 to 30 kids and parents are set to wash cars, SUVs and vans from 2 to 6 p.m. to raise money during the second annual Mamma’s Car Wash at St. Padre Pio school in Woodbridge.

The event, Sonia says, is inspired by and in honour of her late mother, Maria, who was a tireless supporter of charitable causes, especially those that help kids.

When Maria died in June 2006, Michael and Sonia — her son and daughter — decided the best way to remember their mother was to carry on in her footsteps.

Together they formed Mom’s Angels and in August 2007 put on the first Mamma’s Car Wash for Sick Kids Hospital, one of Maria’s most cherished charities.

Members of the co-ed under-14 Kleinburg Nobleton Soccer Club will be on hand to help, Sonia said, and volunteers will get to enjoy a barbecue and soccer game to wrap up the day.

A car wash will cost $5. Vans and SUVs are $10. All proceeds will go to Sick Kids.

For those that can’t make the carwash but would like to donate, contact Sonia at momsangel1@hotmail.com.

“We’re hoping for a nice turnout,” she said. “We always get a lot of community support.

“Hopefully every year it gets bigger and bigger and we raise lots of money.”

Vaughan Today
Online: July 6, 2008 [link]