Donor Spotlight

Knights of Columbus

Four men standing in a church with a Knights of Columbus flag
From left to right: Grand Knight Allan Cobham, Deputy Grand Knight David Klust, Trustee Eddie Camilleri, Trustee Larry Gagnon.

Since its founding in 1882, the Knights of Columbus have built a legacy of service and charity dedicated to meeting the needs of underserved members of the community. Their mission aligns seamlessly with Fontbonne’s goal to offer programs that address some of today’s most pressing societal challenges: affordable housing, outreach to isolated individuals, and creating inclusive spaces where people can connect, grow spiritually, and express themselves creatively.

For the past 13 years, Allan Cobham has served as the Grand Knight (CEO) of the Knights of Columbus Council at St. Joseph’s Parish in Toronto. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing their charitable impact.

“There are over 17,000 Knights of Columbus councils around the world, most of them based in Catholic parishes. At St. Joseph’s Parish, I oversee everything from setting goals to managing finances to ensuring the wellbeing of our council. We’re fortunate to receive support from an east-end Toronto bingo and gaming hall.”

Since Allan’s appointment as Grand Knight, St. Joseph’s Parish Council has donated $27,000 in support of Fontbonne’s clothing and hygiene and food security programs.

“We’re proud to support an organization that is making such a positive impact on our neighbours in need.”

Fontbonne Ministries would like to thank the Knights of Columbus for their ongoing support. Regular monthly contributions provide the financial stability we need to plan for the future, confident that we can continue working together to create a more compassionate world.

“With food prices rising, it’s hard not to wonder how individuals experiencing homelessness or seniors living on fixed incomes can afford to eat—especially in a city like Toronto. When I toured Fontbonne, I saw firsthand how their programs—providing food, clothing, computer access, and recreational opportunities—make an incredible difference to the participants who access them, and by extension, to our broader community.”