Alan Dean has a strong bond with the Philippines which reaches back to the 1950s when he was a pilot in the Royal Air Force, stationed in Singapore, and regularly flying to Manila and the Philippines-based Clarke Air Force base.
When typhoon Haiyan devastated the Philippines in early November, killing over 6,000 people, Dean was moved to do something to help. The former pilot is now blind and the president of The Low Vision Self-Help Association, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Every year, the association organizes a Christmas concert to raise funds for a cause and this year, the cause was Philippines relief.
The West End Chorus performed at The Church of St. John the Baptist in Pointe-Claire, Dec. 4 and on Dec. 20, Dean will present the Red Cross with a cheque for $645.
“The Canadian Red Cross very much appreciates the initiatives of grass-root fundraising efforts,” Red Cross director of fund development Pascal Mathieu said. “These generous gestures truly make a difference and we are most grateful for their support.
Because Dean was able to submit the donation before the Dec. 31 deadline, the federal government will double the amount.
To donate to the Philippines relief effort, visit www.redcross.ca.
kgreenaway@montrealgazette.com