(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools

Inspiring kids to read, write and succeed through Smile Cookies

Sep 16, 2022 | 1:35 PM

Officials with the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools are advising central Albertans to get their sweet tooth ready for next week and help out a great cause at the same time.

Helping struggling students become readers of potential is exactly what local Tim Hortons stores want as proceeds for next week’s Smile Cookie campaign will be directed to Reading College, a project of the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools.

“We set up this amazing and fun summer program for kids in Grade 2 where they learn to love reading, and gain the skills to continue their growth as learners,” says Superintendent of Schools, Chad Erickson. “Reading is the foundation for success in school and life. If we can help further develop their skills and instill a love for reading, it creates a lifetime of difference for that child.”

“It will make a difference for them, make a difference for their families and make a difference in their life experiences,” adds Erickson. “That’s the beauty of Reading College. This year, we had 64 graduates of the Reading College program who were incredibly engaged and able to excel and improve their reading abilities over the month of July, setting them up for further success.”

“The Smile Cookie Campaign is a great opportunity to raise awareness on the importance of literacy, it really does create life chances for students,” shares Kristine Plastow, Foundation Board Chair. “Reading College is made possible through great support from our community and Tim Hortons – we could not operate it without this support. I encourage the community to get out there and buy their cookies next week!”

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From September 19-25, Tim Hortons restaurant owners in Red Deer will generously donate all proceeds from sales of a special smiling chocolate chunk cookie to support the Reading College program through The Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools. The $1 treat helps community programs across Canada in the cities where they are sold.

“On behalf of all Tim Hortons’ restaurant owners and team members in Red Deer, I would like to thank our fantastic guests for their loyalty, generosity and support of the Smile Cookie campaign,” said Tanya Doucette, Tim Hortons Restaurant Owner in Red Deer. “We are thrilled to support The Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools and their Reading College program. With funds raised we are helping students learn to read, which will ultimately help set them up for a lifetime of success.”

“During Smile Cookie Week,” continues Doucette. “We welcome all Red Deerians to buy a delicious freshly-baked Smile Cookie in support of a great cause, which helps benefit children in our community.”