Every child deserves a safe place to play outdoors. Too much sun during childhood increases the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers later in life. This Giving Tuesday, Melanoma Canada is asking people across the country to nominate a space in their community — a camp, community centre, daycare, park, recreation facility, or youth sport team — to receive a custom shade solution valued at $25,000.
Supporters can donate as little as $5 to nominate a space. Each $5 donation counts as one entry. The more donations, the greater its chance to win essential sun-safety protection:
- One space will be randomly selected to receive a custom shade structure valued at $25,000, courtesy of Shade Sails Canada.
- The space with the most nominations will receive a custom shade package valued at up to $5,000.
- Nominations are open until February 15, 2026, 11:59 PM EST, allowing communities to rally together and make a lasting difference in the health and safety of their children, and future generations. Winners will be notified on February 16, 2026, by 3:00 PM EST.
The campaign builds on and raises funds for Melanoma Canada’s Sun Guardians Grant Program, launched in 2024, which equips youth organizations nationwide with sunscreen, UPF clothing, shade structures, UV-sensitive tools, and sun safety education. Together, these initiatives help ensure all children have access to protection from harmful UV exposure, regardless of where they live or play.
“We accumulate 80% of our lifetime sun exposure during our childhood,” said Falyn Katz, CEO of Melanoma Canada. “Our ‘Bring Shade to Where Kids Shine’ campaign invites every Canadian to play a role in prevention. By nominating a space and making a small donation, you’re helping create safer environments for kids and your donations help instill lifelong sun-safe habits.”
Melanoma Canada encourages individuals and businesses to take part in this Giving Tuesday by nominating a deserving space and spreading the word. Every contribution helps bring shade — and safety — to where kids shine the brightest.
