Smile Cookies return in support of Reading College

Grab your loonies and run to Tim Horton’s — it’s Smile Cookie time again.
 
In Red Deer, every cent from the sale of the cookies will go towards Red Deer Public Schools’ Reading College program.
 
Last fall, the Smile Cookies campaign raised just over $40,000 for Reading College.
 
Bruce Buruma, Executive Director of the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools says as proven once again with the 64 kids who took part this summer, Reading College is improving lives.

“It gives them a better future, it gets them excited about reading, but more importantly, excited about learning. Reading really is the foundation for education, so it’s so essential for them,” he says. “Those kids, this summer, had the best summer ever and I know going into grade three this year, they’re excited, they’re motivated and they see that it’s going to be a better year for them this year.”
 
Reading College lasts 20 days and students are separated into classrooms at RDC which focus on the areas of reading, writing and word skills.
 
This year, the foundation will also continue it’s work with the Bright Start program (pre-k programming), which previously benefited from Smile Cookies, the Finish Line program (high school completion), and the new Step Up Fund, which Buruma explains will help with equity for students and families facing barriers.
 
“It’s really tough to learn when all you can think about is food or some of those other basic needs,” he says. “There will be dollars for our schools to support some of these basic needs, but unfortunately, and the reality is, that some of these kids are going without. We see lots of demand and need for those kinds of supports.”
 
Smile Cookie week runs from September 11 to 18.

In Sylvan Lake, Smile Cookie proceeds are going to support advanced ambulatory care in the community.