Meritorious Service Medal
Awarded on: 2001-06-25
Invested on: 2001-10-12
Hanni Sager, M.S.M., Toronto, Ont.
Meritorious Service Medal (civil division)
During the winter of 1991, on her own initiative and at her own expense, Hanni Sager set out to teach the art of toy-making to disabled and street children in Mexico. After discovering an orphanage near Oaxaca, she set up a toy workshop and taught the children the joy of toy-making and painting. She later obtained the financial support necessary to open similar workshops in other parts of Mexico. Through her teaching abilities, the children were able to earn a living and contribute to their own well-being by selling their work at local markets. An example of determination and courage, Ms. Sager gave the children a sense of purpose and self-worth. Through her work for the betterment of the less fortunate, she brought pride and honour to Canada.