TORONTO, Nov. 5 /CNW/ - Hundreds of Bay Streeters lined up to be served by Scotiabank executives and guest chefs this morning to help kick-off Scotia Hope, Scotiabank's 2010 United Way Toronto employee campaign. With a donation in return for a plate of pancakes, the annual event proved to be as popular as ever and put breakfast attendees in the giving spirit.

"The Scotiabank Pancake Breakfast is always a success because it brings people together in a fun way that draws attention to a great cause," said Rick Waugh, Scotiabank President and CEO. "Community involvement is an important part of the way we live, work and do business every day and we're proud to support the United Way's efforts to bring hope to our neighbourhoods. This year, our Scotia Hope campaign goal is to raise more than $5.6 million through fun events like today's breakfast, the Scotia Hope Hockey Tournament and, most importantly through the generosity of our employees."

Scotiabank executives were joined by outgoing United Way Toronto President and CEO, Frances Lankin, Canadian broadcaster Valerie Pringle, and NHL Alumni(TM) and former Toronto Maple Leaf Captain Darryl Sittler. Scotiabank employees, customers, and neighbours were invited to have breakfast served up in the main branch for a donation to United Way Toronto.

"While we remain hopeful for economic recovery, many people in our city are still struggling," said Ms. Lankin. "Now, more than ever, our city needs to rebuild resiliency and every one of us can help make that happen. The United Way Toronto campaign reminds us that together we can make a difference, a notion that is exemplified year after year by the commitment of Scotiabank and its great team of employees."

The annual Pancake Breakfast officially kicked off the employee campaign which includes a variety of fundraisers showcasing the spirit and dedication of Scotiabank employees who continuously volunteer their time and energy to raise funds for United Way Toronto. Other fundraising and awareness initiatives include the Scotiabank Rat Race; Scotiabankers Give Back Talent Night, and, the Scotia Hope Hockey Game on December 12th, 2010, which will bring together NHL Alumni to play hockey with youth from United Way agencies and Bank executives. With 750 Scotiabank volunteer coordinators and canvassers, and donations made by thousands of employees, Scotiabank continues to be one of the largest supporters of United Way Toronto.

About United Way

Established in 1956, United Way Toronto is a charity working to advance the common good and create opportunities for a better life for everyone in our city. Working in partnership with others, we mobilize people and resources to address the root causes of social problems and to change community conditions for the better. United Way supports agencies that provide services to strengthen individuals, families, and communities.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad. Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for its charitable donations and philanthropic activities, in 2009 the Bank provided about $39 million in sponsorships and donations to a variety of projects and initiatives, primarily in the areas of healthcare, education, social services and arts and culture. Visit us at www.scotiabank.com.