London developer makes $1.3M contribution to the London Children’s Museum

London businessman Shmuel Fahri to donated $1.3 million to the London Children’s Museum. CTV’s Gerry Dewan was there.

At the former home of the London Children’s Museum, Farhi Holdings president Shmuel Farhi announced a $1.3 million donation to what he says is an invaluable city asset.

“I can tell you that they have families that can’t afford to come there, and they open the door at no cost. So they are not for profit, but I call it not for profit on steroids.”

In 2014, Farhi Holdings purchased the property that housed the museum. The museum was preparing to transition to a new location, but the COVID pandemic and the economic challenges that followed delayed the move.

They landed in their new location at 100 Kellogg Lane at the end of last year, officially opening in January.

Kate Ledgley is Executive Director of the Children’s Museum, “Since our grand opening, we have welcomed more than 160,000 children and their families through our doors at 100 Kellogg Lane, which is exceptional. At our former location, we would have about 100,000 people per year. So, in just eight months we’ve more than exceeded what we used to have.”

Farhi says his company has contributed approximately $3.6 million in total to the museum, both in-kind and cash.

“I’m a firm believer that we have to give back to the community and a great organization. Our kids are our future. What’s better than to help them.”

The museum continues to fundraise, seeking another $2.3 million as part of the $23 million capital campaign goal.

According to Ledgley, “Those contributions allow us to keep the museum accessible and serving the community in the best way we can.”

Farhi Holdings continues to look for a tenant for 21 Wharncliffe Road South. Shmuel Farhi told CTV News that if that tenant can’t be found, they’ll have to weigh other options.

“If, for whatever reason, we can’t come up with a tenant that could fit the place, we will consider converting it to residential and building.”

The London Children’s Museum was established in 1977 and was the country’s first children’s museum.