Smile Cookies are coming to a Tim Hortons near you!

Those delicious chocolate chunk cookies with the bright pink eyes and big blue smiles are back! Tim Hortons’ Smile Cookie Campaign returns April 28 - May 4, and we’re thrilled to share that this year’s proceeds will once again support Reading College, a project of the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools.

Reading College is a life-changing summer program that helps Grade 2 students build confidence and develop essential reading skills. By supporting the campaign, Tim Hortons restaurants in Red Deer are helping to set struggling young readers on a path to success.

“Reading is the foundation for success in school and in life,” said Chad Erickson, Superintendent of Red Deer Public Schools. “At Reading College, students grow their skills, discover a love for reading, and gain the tools they need to thrive. Last summer, 72 students graduated from the program engaged, empowered and better prepared for the future.”

Each Smile Cookie is just $2, with 100% of proceeds going directly to Reading College.

“The Smile Cookie Campaign is an amazing way to support literacy and raise awareness about the power of reading,” said Kristine Plastow, Board Chair for the Foundation for Red Deer Public Schools. “We couldn’t run Reading College without the support of our community and partners like Tim Hortons. So buy a cookie - or a dozen!”

Tanya Doucette, local Tim Hortons restaurant owner, said the Reading College is a great cause and leaves a lasting impression on students.

“We’re proud to support Reading College and help make a difference in the lives of children here in Red Deer,” she said. “We’re so grateful to our guests and our team members for making Smile Cookie Week a big success - together we’re helping to change students' lives.”

Join us for Smile Cookie Day May 3

Come celebrate with us on Saturday, May 3 at the Tim Hortons on Thomlison Avenue in Red Deer. Enjoy a Smile Cookie, meet our amazing emergency responders, and take a peek inside a police cruiser, or firetruck, thanks to our friends at the Red Deer RCMP, Red Deer Emergency Services and the Alberta Sheriffs. And don’t miss our Science Teacher Jason Zackowski in action - he’ll be running fun science experiments throughout the event for kids and families to enjoy.

“This is such a fun and meaningful event for our community,” said Kristine. “We hope to see you there!”

Help us promote the campaign by ‘liking’ Red Deer Public Schools on Facebook and ‘following’ us on Twitter, both under @rdpschools. You can also find us on Instagram @reddeerpublicschools.