Tim Hortons locations across Muskoka are preparing to launch the annual Smile Cookie Campaign.
The fundraising campaign runs from April 27 to May 3, with all funds raised donated to selected local charities or organizations.
The Huntsville and Burk’s Falls locations will support The Table Soup Kitchen Foundation, The Corner Lighthouse, The Salvation Army, and Burk’s Falls and District Food Bank.
“It gives people an easy way to support the organizations and the charities, because it’s just two dollars and 100 per cent of the proceeds go towards the charity,” said Jennifer McFadyen, owner of the Huntsville and Burk’s Falls locations. “It’s a small way that everybody can support and also get a delicious treat at the same time.”
McFadyen said that last year’s campaign in Huntsville and Burk’s Falls raised more than $45,000 for local schools, helping fund programs, extracurricular activities, and school-wide initiatives. She said they hope to surpass that amount this year.
Bracebridge locations will direct proceeds to the Manna Food Bank.
Manna Food Bank general manager Brain Bobbette said the funds raised will be used for much needed food and personal care items, adding their number of clients continues to grow, with an approximate 30 per cent increase from last year.
“We are very appreciative of Tim Hortons naming us the recipient this year…it will make a big difference within our community,” he said.
Bracebridge Tim Hortons owner Laura Francis said it feels incredibly meaningful to continue to support the campaign locally.
“Knowing that something as simple as buying a smile cookie can help provide food for families in our community makes this campaign really special,” said Francis. “It’s a small act that has a big impact. We are always so grateful to our community for how willingly they support such a fantastic campaign.”
Francis added that last year’s Bracebridge campaign raised more than $21,000 for the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation and nearly $11,000 for the Children’s Foundation of Muskoka, with hopes to build on that momentum this year.
In Gravenhurst, funds raised will support Gravenhurst High School.
The campaign began in 1996 and supports charities and organizations across Canada and the United States. Each cookie is decorated and packaged by volunteers, including members of the benefiting organizations and the local community.
For more information and a map of participating locations, click here.
