With every cup of coffee poured last Wednesday, the Stonewall Tim Hortons helped send underserved youth to camp as part of Tim Hortons® Camp Day® — the annual fundraiser supporting Tim Hortons Foundation Camps.
From open to close, 100 per cent of hot and iced coffee sales at the Stonewall location were donated to the Foundation, joining thousands of other restaurants across Canada and the United States in the effort.
“We have owned and operated this location since its opening in 2011,” said the local Tim Hortons owner Jamie Pope. “Supporting the local community is really the heart of the Tim Hortons business. Stonewall and the surrounding communities have been so generous to us, we are grateful for these opportunities to give back.”
In addition to coffee sales, guests could show their support by purchasing $2 donation badges, $3 Camp Day bracelets, or special $2 Camp Day donuts, with all proceeds going directly to the camps. Tim Hortons Take 12 coffee carriers were also available for workplaces and families to collectively contribute.
“I have such a kind team — they are so eager to fundraise,” said Pope. “If you frequent our drive-thru, you probably were asked (maybe several times) over the last couple weeks if you’d like to purchase a Camp Day bracelet or make a donation.”
This year, Stonewall team members brought extra energy with singing, dancing, and even some enthusiastic guests joining in.
“Our super musically talented team members set up a lovely day with singing and dancing — this year we had some guests join in with some pretty great dance moves,” the owner added. “The team has an annual goal which is ‘more than last year.’ Every dollar makes a difference, and everyone is involved — this year raising just over $1,600.”
Since its national launch in 1991, Camp Day has raised more than $262 million for Tim Hortons Foundation Camps, which help youth aged 12 to 16 build confidence, develop leadership skills and unlock their potential through year-round camp programming.
“We’ve had several local kiddos attend the Tim’s Foundation Camps over the years,” said Pope. “That’s been a really special experience — not just for the children, but also for me to hear from the caregivers about the camp’s impact.”
Axel Schwan, president of Tim Hortons, said the initiative has supported over 325,000 youth to date.
“I encourage everyone to join us and purchase a hot or iced coffee to help make an impact in the lives of young people who deserve every opportunity to succeed,” he said.
Tim Hortons Foundation Camps board president Caroline Barham called Camp Day “our biggest fundraiser of the year,” and said the event demonstrates the power of community in helping youth discover their full potential.
Stonewall’s store manager Redin Ouacan also shared his appreciation for the day’s success: “It’s a great experience and a strong camaraderie of all the teams, with a beyond-expectation level of success for Camp Day — together with the guests who participated and their generosity. Truly amazing, Stonewall community.”
As the Stonewall team awaits the national total, they are already looking forward to future community fundraisers.
“Whether it’s been Smile Cookie, orange donut, Special Olympics donut, or Camp Day, our most sincere thank you to everyone for supporting our charitable initiatives,” said Pope.
