Timmins business owner honoured with city’s Heart of Gold award

Timmins restaurateur Estela Chow received the Heart of Gold Award for decades of community work, including feeding those in need and founding local groups.

Longtime Timmins entrepreneur and community advocate Estela Chow has been named a recipient of the city’s Heart of Gold Civic Award for her decades of volunteerism and dedication to helping others.

Chow, who moved to Timmins in 1993, built a career as a business owner, first providing caregiver and cleaning services before expanding into the food industry with the Lady Luck Restaurant and Buffet. Known for her generosity, she has been recognized for ensuring no food goes to waste from her restaurant, instead using it to feed those in need.

A founding member of the Filipino Association of Timmins and an active volunteer with the Schumacher Lions Club, Chow is credited with welcoming newcomers and promoting cultural diversity. Her nomination highlights her “incredible giving spirit and positive voice,” as well as her hands-on approach to community improvement.

“Timmins is a beautiful place to live because of people like Estela who focus on the positive,” her nomination read.

“She puts her money where her mouth is and, when she sees something in the community that needs to be fixed, she fixes it with her time and love.”

“We couldn’t agree more,” the city wrote in a social media post announcing the award.

“Congratulations Estela. Thank you for everything you do.”

The Heart of Gold Recognition Program celebrates residents who make a significant impact on the community or achieve outstanding accomplishments during regular city council meeting.

Residents can learn more about the program’s eligibility requirements and make nominations by visiting www.timmins.ca.