Community-funded transformation brings a vibrant, youth-focused space to life through the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign.
Sydney, NS (March 9, 2026) – BGC Cape Breton unveiled a newly redesigned Smilezone space in the centre’s teen hangout area, offering a bright and welcoming environment where young people can connect, unwind and feel supported.
The transformation was designed and delivered by Smilezone Foundation, a national organization that has reimagined more than 500 healthcare and community spaces across Canada. Each Smilezone is intentionally created to reduce stress, encourage creativity and foster a sense of inclusion and belonging for children, youth and families.
This local initiative was made possible thanks to the generosity of Cape Breton Tim Hortons restaurant owners Karen Hatcher and Troy Wilson. Funds raised during the annual Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign were directed to support this project, demonstrating the meaningful impact of community-driven giving across the region.
“We are proud to partner with BGC Cape Breton to create a space where teens can feel comfortable, inspired and supported,” said Jackie Hames, Executive Director of Smilezone Foundation. “We know that environment plays a powerful role in emotional well-being. When young people walk into a space that feels bright, welcoming and designed just for them, it can shift their mindset and create a greater sense of belonging. We are incredibly grateful to the local Tim Hortons owners and the Cape Breton community for helping make this Smilezone possible.”
“This new Smilezone is more than just a refreshed space it’s an investment in our teens and their well-being,” said Chester Borden, Executive Director BGC Cape Breton. “Our youth deserve environments where they feel safe, energized and inspired to be themselves. Thanks to the generosity of our local Tim Hortons owners and the Smile Cookie Campaign, we now have a vibrant space that encourages connection, creativity and confidence for the young people we serve every day.”
Research has consistently shown that thoughtfully designed, colourful and engaging environments can positively influence mindset, emotional well-being and even healing outcomes particularly for children and youth. By transforming everyday spaces into uplifting environments, Smilezone helps create settings where young people feel calmer, more confident and more connected.
ABOUT SMILEZONE FOUNDATION:
Smilezone Foundation is a registered charity in Oakville, Ontario committed to improving the lives of children receiving medical treatment at health facilities across Canada. In 2012 founders Adam Graves and Scott Bachly were approached to make a financial contribution to the construction of a local hospital. Through partnerships with hospitals, community centers, and other organizations, Smilezone creates accessible, fun, and therapeutic environments where children can heal and thrive. The Foundation has transformed 500 spaces into Smilezones across Canada, benefiting communities in all ten provinces and reaching hundreds of thousands of children, parents, health care workers and families. For more information, visit www.smilezone.com.
-30-
For more information:
Micki Benedetti
Smilezone Foundation
P: 905-466-2575
benedetti.micki@gmail.com
To download the press release, please click the link: Smilezone bgc Cape Breton Press Release FINAL
Leave A Comment