Smiles all around: Estevan's remarkable Smile Cookie campaign

The Estevan Tim Hortons' Smile Cookie Campaign has exceeded all expectations, providing significant support for the Estevan Early Years Family Resource Centre. Misty Pennington, the centre’s director of programs and community engagement, expressed deep appreciation for the overwhelming support from the community.

"It was incredible; we raised $46,832.50," Pennington announced. Estevan's remarkable efforts earned the city second place in Saskatchewan and seventh nationwide with Tim Horton's Smile Cookie Campaigns.

Pennington extended her heartfelt thanks to Tim Hortons and the Irwin family, stating, "Ryan and Mandy Irwin (and their staff) went absolutely above and beyond for us. We could not be more thankful for all their hard work for this campaign."

The Family Centre's initiatives, including the colouring contest and photo submissions on social media, played a crucial role in spreading awareness of the campaign.

Additionally, the campaign's success was further bolstered by the generous contributions from local businesses. Pennington highlighted the significant role of the daily matching sponsors, including McComb Automotive, LNC Trucking, and Highland Rentals, each matching up to $1500. Handy Andy's Mechanical and Captive Oilfield Rentals matched up to $2000, while Mid-City Plumbing and Heating, along with Top Torque Services, matched dollar-for-dollar on their designated days, contributing $4683 and $4893 respectively.

In addition to direct donations and sponsorships from local businesses, schools, senior homes, the Addiction Centre, and Estevan Fire and Police services were also recipients of Smile Cookies. Businesses and individuals had the opportunity to contribute to the campaign by providing cookies to these organizations, spreading joy and support throughout the community.

Looking ahead, the funds raised will be dedicated to the Family Resource Centre’s 6 to 11 program. "Last month alone, we had 300 kids come through our 6 to 11 programs," Pennington noted. The funds will enable the centre to hire third-party facilitators, including speech pathologists, social workers, and other professionals, to provide a variety of services to the children.

The culmination of the Smile Cookie Campaign will be marked by a check presentation scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 16th, at the Estevan Early Years Family Resource Centre.

For more information about the Estevan Family Resource Centre's programming and services, follow them on Facebook or visit estevanfamily.com.