Story by Maria Kotsovos
The YMCA of Central East Ontario is celebrating another remarkable year of community generosity following the 2026 Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign.
The YMCA and members of the campaign celebrated the community’s generosity with a cheque presentation Wednesday at the site of the new YMCA Centre for Life on 355 Bridge St. W in Belleville.
The YMCA participated in the Smile Cookie Campaign from April 28 to May 4 across Belleville and Stirling.
During this year’s campaign, $96,060 was raised thanks to the support of local Tim Hortons owners, volunteers, and community members.
The total raised in 2026 ended up reaching $101,060 thanks to a generous $5,000 donation from former Tim Hortons owners Mary and Mark Hanley.
This brings the cumulative total raised through the Smile Cookie Campaign to $255,008.07 in direct support of the Y’s Centre for Life, a transformative space that will promote health, connection, and belonging for individuals and families across the region.
The total funds raised also contributes to the Strong Kids Campaign, enabling several children to return to camp this year.
In recognition of the ongoing partnership between the YMCA and Tim Hortons, a legacy feature named The Tim Hortons Children’s Treehouse will be included in the Centre.
The names of each of the Tim Hortons owners, Rachana & Amit Seth, Jamie Smid, and Niranjan Panchalingam, as well as the previous owners Mary and Mark Hanley, will be recognized within the space.
The YMCA extends heartfelt thanks to the Tim Hortons restaurant owners in Belleville and Stirling for selecting the YMCA as their 2026 charity partner and for their continued commitment to strengthening the community.
The grand opening for the Centre for Life is anticipated for 2027.
