Halton Learning Foundation CEO Takes on 100 KM Bike Challenge to Help Vulnerable HDSB Students
Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) CEO Marc Clare completed, with five other riders, a 110 km “Tour de Halton” bike ride on April 24 across the region to raise awareness and funds for students in need within the Halton District School Board (HDSB).
The ride is one of many fundraisers taking place during HLF Month in April, officially recognized by Halton communities and HDSB as a time to celebrate and support the vital work of the Halton Learning Foundation.
HLF plays a critical role in helping students overcome financial barriers to learning, whether that means providing food, clothing, school supplies, or access to learning opportunities.
“We’re riding our bikes to shine a light on the critical financial needs facing HDSB students,” said Clare. “The rising cost of living—and now the added pressure of tariffs and growing economic uncertainty—are making it harder than ever for some families to make ends meet. We have elementary students arriving at school without breakfast or warm clothes, and high schoolers balancing classes with multiple jobs just to help put food on the table. It’s incredibly difficult to focus on learning when you’re cold, hungry, or stressed.”
So far this school year, HLF has provided emergency financial support for more than 2,800 students, a 23% increase over last year.
Clare’s 110 km journey kicked off in Acton, with stops at several HDSB schools in Georgetown, Milton, and Oakville, before wrapping up in Burlington. Along the way, students and staff came out to cheer, show their support, and celebrate the ride’s inspiring purpose.
More than 34 school and community teams participated in HLF Month, collectively raising over $21,000 so far to support students in need. Clare’s personal goal is to raise $5,000, which would provide emergency financial assistance for about 20 students.
You can still donate to Marc’s fundraiser or support participating school teams at: HLF Month teams.
Up next, HLF’s signature event, Students in the Spotlight, takes place on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Burlington Central High School. The event will showcase live performances from talented HDSB students and raise critical funds for student support.
Get your tickets here
HLF Month and Students in the Spotlight are proudly presented by CN, who will match all donations up to $25,000—doubling the impact for students and helping twice as many students across HDSB.
To learn more about HLF Month or to donate, visit www.haltonlearningfoundation.ca/hlfmonth
