BRANTFORD, ON — Lansdowne Children’s Centre (LCC) and Brant Food for Thought (BFFT) are thrilled to announce they have been selected as the 2026 local charity recipients of the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign, with support from 19 Tim Hortons restaurants across the Brantford area.

The much-anticipated Smile Cookie campaign will take place April 27 through May 3, 2026, inviting the community to enjoy Tim Hortons’ delicious chocolate chunk Smile Cookies while making a meaningful difference close to home. One hundred per cent of proceeds from every Smile Cookie sold during the campaign week will be donated to support local programs provided by Lansdowne Children’s Centre and Brant Food for Thought.

“When our community comes together, incredible things happen for children and families,” said Lynda Henriksen, Director of Development and Community Relations at Lansdowne Children’s Centre. “The Smile Cookie Campaign allows us to respond with care, compassion, and connection. This partnership helps us meet the unique needs of children across our region through truly family‑centred support, giving every child the opportunity to reach their potential.”

“We are incredibly grateful to the Tim Hortons restaurant owners, their dedicated staff, and the community members who continue to support the Smile Cookie campaign,” shared Judy Maidment, Program Director at Brant Food For Thought. “This campaign not only raises essential dollars for critical programs, but also raises awareness of two local organizations working together to support the health, development, and success of children and youth in our community.”

The Tim Hortons Smile Cookie program began in 1996, originally raising funds for Hamilton Children’s Hospital in Ontario. More than 20 years later, the program remains true to its roots, with 100% of Smile Cookie proceeds donated to local charities selected by Tim Hortons restaurant owners.

In 2026, nearly 700 charities and community groups across Canada will benefit from the weeklong campaign, supporting communities from coast-to-coast-to-coast.

Proceeds from this year’s campaign will help Lansdowne Children’s Centre and Brant Food for Thought continue delivering essential services that support thousands of children and families throughout the Grand Erie region.

Brant Food for Thought supports over 12,530 students every week through 62 nutrition programs, including 60 elementary and high school programs and two community-based programs. This year alone, BFFT will provide an estimated 1.45 million breakfasts, morning meals, and snacks to local students.
BFFT programs operate in every Grand Erie District School Board (GEDSB) and Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board (BHNCDSB) elementary and high school in Brantford and the County of Brant, as well as Ste. Marguerite-Bourgeoys School and W. Ross MacDonald School, ensuring equitable access to nutritious food for students across the region.

Lansdowne Children’s Centre provides rehabilitation, respite, and recreation services for infants, children, and youth with additional needs, supporting more than 6,000 families throughout the Grand Erie region. Services are delivered at sites in Brantford, Caledonia, Dunnville and Simcoe, as well as licensed childcare centers, before and after school programs and early learning environments in Brantford and Brant County, and in Grand Erie District School Board classrooms.

Smile Cookie funding helps Lansdowne families access specialty equipment and devices that support child development and provides children and youth with opportunities to participate in programs where they can explore their abilities, build confidence, and connect with friends in safe, supportive environments.

Community members, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to stop by their local Tim Hortons during the campaign week and support the cause, one cookie at a time.

A full list of participating Tim Hortons locations and information on placing Smile Cookie pre-orders for company and organizational support can be found online at: www.lansdownecentre.ca/smilecookie and on the BFFT news blog at www.brantfoodforthought.ca

Together, with the generous support of Tim Hortons franchise owners and guests, the 2026 Smile Cookie Campaign promises to make a lasting, positive impact for children and families across our community, providing proof that smiles can change lives.