Local Tim Hortons restaurant owners proudly presented a donation of $30,081 to Shriners Children’s Erie, thanks to the success of this year’s annual Smile Cookie Campaign. The donation was formally presented on September 14 at the hospital’s Erie location.
The funds were raised through the sale of Tim Hortons’ signature Smile Cookies at 12 participating restaurants across Erie, Warren, Edinboro, Meadville, and Girard. During the weeklong campaign, held from April 27 through May 3, every $2 Smile Cookie sold contributed directly to the fundraising effort benefiting Shriners Children’s Erie.
The Smile Cookie Campaign has become one of Tim Hortons’ most impactful community fundraising initiatives. First launched in 1996 to support Hamilton Children’s Hospital in Ontario, Canada, the program has since expanded throughout the United States and Canada, enabling local restaurant owners to partner with organizations that make a meaningful difference in their communities.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our customers, restaurant teams, and community members who supported the Smile Cookie Campaign,” said representatives involved in the initiative. “This donation will help Shriners Children’s Erie continue providing specialized pediatric care to children and families throughout the region.”
Shriners Children’s is recognized for its leadership in pediatric specialty care, offering treatment for orthopedic conditions, burn injuries, spinal cord injuries, rehabilitation needs, sports injuries, craniofacial conditions, and other complex medical concerns. The organization also provides specialized services such as orthotics, prosthetics, and motion analysis. Importantly, care is provided regardless of a family’s ability to pay or insurance status, ensuring access to life-changing treatment for children who need it most.
The $30,081 donation reflects the strong partnership between local businesses and healthcare organizations and highlights the positive impact that community-driven fundraising can have on children’s healthcare throughout northwestern Pennsylvania. Through initiatives like the Smile Cookie Campaign, Tim Hortons continues its commitment to supporting local causes and helping organizations such as Shriners Children’s Erie improve the lives of children and families in the communities they serve.
More about the Smile Cookie Campaign can be found online here.