In April 2025, we installed FIVE Smilezones at Autism Nova Scotia! The Smilezones are in the Waiting Room, Playrooms (X4). The Smilezones include fresh paint and colorful murals!
Thank you to our generous donor, Tim Hortons HRM Owners for making this project possible!
“We’re incredibly grateful to local HRM Tim Hortons owners, the Smilezone Foundation, and everyone who supported the Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign,” said Amanda Alexander, Executive Director of Autism Nova Scotia. “These new Smilezone spaces offer a warm, inclusive environment for families in our QuickStart Nova Scotia program—many of whom are just beginning their autism journey. They will also serve as unique, sensory-friendly spaces for Autistic teens and young adults to connect through social and recreational programming. This transformation is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community comes together to create spaces where people of all ages feel safe, supported, and valued.”
“We’re incredibly thankful to our loyal Tim Hortons guests whose support during the Smile Cookie Campaign made this incredible project possible,” said Nancy Cahill, Tim Hortons HRM Owner. “It’s truly inspiring to see how something as simple as a cookie can lead to such meaningful change. Supporting local programs that directly impact children and families in our community is something we’re deeply proud to be part of—it’s about giving back to the place we call home.”
About Autism Nova Scotia: Autism Nova Scotia is a non-profit community-based organization that builds understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for Autistics/individuals on the autism spectrum and their families through leadership, advocacy, education, training, and programming across the lifespan. Autism Nova Scotia was founded in 2002 by Joan and Jack Craig, parents of an Autistic adult son. Autism Nova Scotia delivers programming in Halifax and across Nova Scotia through our eight Regional Autism Centres. Our programs and services include Social & Community Inclusion; Mental Health & Wellness; Post Secondary & Employment Support; Strategic Engagement; and Family & Caregiver Support. For more information, visit www.autismnovascotia.ca.
