Pizza Nova has once again demonstrated its deep-rooted commitment to community and compassion with the success of its 26th annual “That’s Amore Pizza for Kids” fundraiser. The renowned pizza chain announced that the 2025 edition of its much-loved charitable campaign raised an impressive $231,045 in support of Variety – the Children’s Charity of Ontario. The funds were officially presented on June 5 during a heartwarming event at Variety Village, where Pizza Nova President Domenic Primucci handed over the donation to Charlie Johnstone, CEO of Variety Ontario.
Now in its 26th year, the “That’s Amore Pizza for Kids” initiative continues to embody Pizza Nova’s mission to give back to the communities it serves. By engaging customers, staff, franchisees, and the broader public, the campaign has become a cherished tradition and a symbol of meaningful corporate social responsibility.
“Each year, I’m reminded of how powerful community can be when we come together for a meaningful cause,” said Primucci. “Thanks to the generosity of our guests and the dedication of our franchisees and team members, we’re able to help open doors for children to grow, play, and thrive. It’s a tradition that continues to inspire all of us at Pizza Nova.”
Throughout the month of May, Pizza Nova donated 50 cents from every dip sold at participating locations across Ontario to Variety Ontario. This unique approach not only engaged customers in a fun and easy way to contribute but also added a delicious incentive for guests to support a worthy cause.
One of the most exciting elements of this year’s campaign was the weekly pop-up pizza shop hosted at the Variety Village Café. These pop-up events featured fresh slices of Pizza Nova’s signature pizzas paired with their popular dipping sauces, with all proceeds directed to the fundraiser. The pop-ups quickly became a weekly highlight for the community, drawing crowds eager to support the cause and enjoy some tasty food.
Charlie Johnstone, President and CEO of Variety Ontario, expressed his heartfelt appreciation for Pizza Nova’s continued support. “We are incredibly grateful for Pizza Nova’s unwavering commitment to Variety and the children we serve,” he said. “Their generous contributions have made a profound impact on the lives of countless children and families across Ontario, providing them with access to inclusive programming and the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
Since the inception of the partnership in 1999, Pizza Nova has raised more than $2.9 million for Variety Ontario. These funds have directly supported thousands of children with disabilities by enabling them to participate in inclusive sports, recreational activities, and life skills development programs. The long-standing collaboration between Pizza Nova and Variety is a shining example of how sustained partnerships can lead to meaningful change and lasting impact.
Variety Ontario is a recognized leader in advocating for children with disabilities, offering a wide range of programs and services that promote inclusion, physical activity, social development, and overall well-being. Variety Village, the organization’s flagship facility located in Scarborough, has become a hub for inclusive physical activity and support services, helping youth build confidence, foster friendships, and develop essential life skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Through their involvement with Variety, Pizza Nova has become more than just a corporate donor—they are active participants in the journey toward building a more inclusive society. The company’s leadership and staff are frequently seen engaging with Variety families, attending events, and championing the cause both within and beyond their restaurant walls.
“Our work with Variety goes beyond fundraising,” added Primucci. “It’s about building relationships, understanding the challenges these families face, and being part of the solution. We’re proud to stand beside an organization that is truly making a difference.”
The success of the 2025 campaign adds another chapter to the legacy of the “That’s Amore Pizza for Kids” program. What began over two decades ago as a simple initiative to give back has grown into a major annual event that brings people together around a common cause. It has become a source of inspiration not only for Pizza Nova employees and customers but for the broader community as well.
Many franchisees across the province take personal pride in participating in the campaign, often going above and beyond by organizing local events, encouraging customer involvement, and sharing stories of how the fundraiser has impacted their own neighborhoods. The campaign also provides an opportunity for staff to bond over a shared mission and experience the tangible effects of their work beyond the pizza counter.
As the company looks ahead to future campaigns, Primucci emphasized that the goal remains the same: to continue raising funds and awareness for children with disabilities, and to keep inspiring acts of kindness across Ontario. “We look forward to continuing this journey with Variety and all of our amazing supporters,” he said. “Every dip sold, every slice shared, and every dollar raised brings us one step closer to building a world where every child can thrive.”
With over a quarter-century of support under its belt, Pizza Nova’s “That’s Amore Pizza for Kids” fundraiser stands as a model of corporate philanthropy in action. It shows how a beloved local brand can mobilize a wide network of people to create positive change—and how something as small as a dipping sauce can have a big impact when paired with heart, purpose, and community spirit.
For more information on Pizza Nova’s charitable initiatives or to learn how to support Variety – the Children’s Charity of Ontario,
