News Release
June 23, 2022

The City of Toronto, the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund, the Douglas Wright Foundation and Shoppers Drug Mart are collaborating once again to deliver the #BeSunSafe program this summer. The #BeSunSafe program aims to help prevent skin cancer by providing sunscreen and an opportunity to take a break in the shade to people enjoying some of Toronto’s parks, and raising awareness about sun protection. Protecting skin from the sun is the best way to prevent skin cancer.

Starting later this month, #BeSunSafe touchless sunscreen dispensers will be available at 75 locations in City parks along the waterfront, from Marie Curtis Park in the west to Bluffers Park in the east as well as in High Park.

Founding partners, the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund, the Douglas Wright Foundation and three-time sponsor Shoppers Drug Mart are covering all costs. The charities will maintain and stock dispensers across Toronto, while the City provides administrative support and access to sites.

Sunscreen provided in the #BeSunSafe dispensers is SPF 30, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB), PABA-free, paraben-free, scent-free and mineral-based. The #BeSunSafe campaign reminds residents:

  • Apply sunscreen every two hours.
  • Reapply after swimming or sweating.
  • No sunscreen provides 100 per cent protection.
  • Use sunscreen with other sun protection measures such as limiting time in the sun, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
  • Sunscreen may be used on babies older than six months.
  • If you have ever had a reaction to sunscreen check with your doctor first.

A map with the location of the dispensers along with information about skin cancer and sun safety tips, is on the #BeSunSafe website.

Since the #BeSunSafe program began in 2017, the sunscreen dispensers have been used one million times, dispensing 1,000 litres of sunscreen. Since 2020, the #BeSunSafe program has also donated 150 canopy tents to provide critical shade to those participating in City camp programming. The #BeSunSafe program is the recipient of the 2018 and 2019 Canadian Dermatology Association’s Public Education Awards.

The David Cornfield Melanoma Fund is a Canadian charity that saves lives from melanoma by raising awareness, promoting prevention and supporting research. The Douglas Wright Foundation is devoted to fighting melanoma in Canada by increasing awareness, educating the public about early detection and preventive measures, and fostering partnerships between like-minded organizations.

Quotes:

“I want to thank the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund, the Douglas Wright Foundation and Shoppers Drug Mart for partnering with the city again this year to bring this campaign together. This is a great way to keep people sun safe while ensuring that they can enjoy the warm summer months in the city.”
– Mayor John Tory

“I am so pleased that the City and its partners are, once again, able to provide sun protection to thousands of residents and visitors as they explore and enjoy the beauty of Toronto!”
– Councillor Jennifer McKelvie (Scarborough-Rouge Park), Chair of the Infrastructure and Environment Committee

“Although preventable, skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada. Protecting your skin in the sun is the best way to reduce your risk of skin cancer. The #BeSunSafe program provides important sun protection and skin cancer prevention awareness. We are proud to empower Torontonians to be safe.”
– Danielle Paterson, Executive Director, David Cornfield Melanoma Fund and representative for the Douglas Wright Foundation

Toronto is home to more than 2.9 million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.

Media Relations
City of Toronto
Danielle Paterson
David Cornfield Melanoma Fund
647-393-3263