Dr. Tony Ashworth’s $85,000 Gift Strengthens Lionhearts’ Mission

Lionhearts Inc. has received a significant donation of $85,000 from the late Dr. Tony Ashworth, an act that will enhance the charity’s winter campaign aimed at supporting vulnerable individuals in Kingston. This generous gift was announced just one week before Dr. Ashworth passed away on November 18, 2025, at the age of 89.

Travis Blackmore, the Founder and CEO of Lionhearts, expressed profound gratitude for Dr. Ashworth’s commitment to the community. “We’re deeply grateful for the care and support of Dr. Ashworth, which reflects a lifelong legacy of compassion,” he stated. Blackmore emphasized the importance of this contribution during the charity’s busiest season, highlighting its potential to inspire others to support those in need this winter.

Dr. Ashworth’s legacy extends beyond this donation. His obituary notes his unwavering dedication to alleviating poverty in Kingston and his longstanding support for various local charities, including Lunch By George and Hospice Kingston. He volunteered at St. George’s Cathedral and was actively involved in initiatives aimed at supporting the most vulnerable members of the community.

This final gift from Dr. Ashworth is expected to have a lasting impact, offering hope and essential resources to many during the holiday season. Lionhearts plans to use the funds raised through this winter campaign to bolster its initiatives focused on reducing hunger and homelessness. These initiatives include food and household goods rescue, shelter and transitional housing, as well as programs like the Fresh Food Market Pop-Ups and the Lionhearts Student Food Box program.

The campaign, which launched on Giving Tuesday, has already seen a third of Dr. Ashworth’s generous donation matched through contributions from other supporters. This matching opportunity means that all donations made before the end of December will be doubled, amplifying the impact of each contribution.

Those wishing to honor Dr. Ashworth’s legacy and make a difference in their community can donate online at lionhearts.ca/donate or find mailing information at lionhearts.ca. The organization encourages individuals to participate in this matching campaign to help provide stability and warmth to countless individuals during the challenging winter months ahead.