Halton Learning Foundation Kicks Off HLF Month to Support HDSB Students in Need
2,500 HDSB students have received emergency assistance since the beginning of this school year
The Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) is proud to launch its second annual HLF Month, “Your Community, Your Impact,” this April. Dedicated to breaking down financial barriers for students in the Halton District School Board (HDSB), this month-long initiative unites community members, HDSB schools, and local organizations and businesses in a shared mission: ensuring every student has access to essentials like school supplies, meals, and extracurricular opportunities.
“Education should be about learning, not worrying about where your next meal is coming from or whether you have the supplies to succeed,” said Marc Clare, HLF CEO. “Many families in Halton are struggling—whether it’s parents who have lost jobs due to illness, single parents doing their best to make ends meet, or caregivers forced to choose between putting food on the table or buying new clothes for their children. No child should have to worry about these challenges while trying to focus on school. That’s why we’re asking our community to come together—because every dollar raised stays right here in Halton, directly helping local students stay in school and succeed.”
With over 2,500 students already supported this school year—and projections indicating that number will rise to 3,600 due to ongoing economic challenges—HLF’s role has never been more crucial. Since its founding in 2004, the organization has assisted over 25,000 students, providing emergency funds for food, clothing, school supplies, school grants, and scholarships. As a community-funded organization, HLF relies on the generosity of the community to ensure that no student is held back due to financial hardship.
Schools, organizations, businesses, and individuals are invited to get involved in HLF Month by arranging an HLF challenge by hosting fundraisers in your workplaces, schools, or community, or spreading awareness to your community, or by donating to HLF, or other activity during the month of April. Last year, 30 schools raised over $30,000, which supported over 150 students.
A culminating event of HLF Month is Students in the Spotlight, an annual fundraising showcase celebrating the incredible talents of HDSB students. Held on April 30 at 7:00 PM at Burlington Central High School, this inspiring evening will feature student performances while raising funds to support those in need.
“We are excited to provide a platform for students to showcase their talents while supporting their peers,” said Marc Clare. “It’s a night of entertainment with a purpose—every ticket purchased helps us remove barriers to education.”
HLF encourages everyone to make an impact during HLF Month and Students in the Spotlight. Together, we can create a community where no student is held back due to financial hardship.
HLF Month is presented by CN. All contributions made during this month will be matched up to $25,000, doubling the impact of the community’s generosity.
For more information and ideas on how to get involved, visit www.haltonlearningfoundation.ca/hlfmonth
