The Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign is making a meaningful difference in the lives of families across Manitoba. Thanks to generous corporate and individual donors, including proceeds from this initiative, youth and their family members recently gathered for an evening of delicious food and connection at the LIFE Program’s Supper Club.
More than just a cooking lesson, the Supper Club offers a welcoming and inclusive space where families can bond, engage in a shared activity and build lasting relationships.
For parent Kerri Koblun, Supper Club is something her family eagerly anticipates.
“We look forward to it. It’s a time for us to connect, a time for us to work together. It gives my son Joshua an opportunity to be out in the community in a safe space without judgment,” reflected Koblun.
Beyond providing a positive experience for her son, the program also fosters a sense of community for parents.
“My favourite part about Cooking Club is getting to meet other parents. Often, families like mine feel like we are in silos,” shared Koblun. “In schools, our kids aren’t necessarily going to be on a basketball team, in a musical theatre production or at cheer camp. We don’t have many chances to communicate with other parents, so we are all navigating through this on our own. That’s why it’s nice to have a place where we all understand each other without any words being said.”
Programs like the Supper Club are made possible through generous support from donors. A portion of proceeds from the 2024 Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign funded initiatives like these, helping families develop valuable life skills in a supportive environment.
“Tim Hortons Smile Cookie is all about giving back to the community,” said Tim Hortons store owner Diane Shapiro. “Here in Winnipeg, store owners wanted to provide children with opportunities to grow, build confidence and achieve their social, health and developmental goals. Seeing families come together at Supper Club makes our Smile Cookie campaign even more meaningful.”
Want to make a difference? Support CRF programs by purchasing Smile Cookies at any Winnipeg or Selkirk location during the 2025 campaign running April 28 and May 4. Order by the dozen through the Foundation and you will receive free delivery anywhere in Winnipeg.