Chestermere Bites Back with a Smile: Over $13K Raised for Women’s Crisis Support

Chestermere residents came together in a big way this spring—one cookie at a time.
Thanks to the annual Tim Hortons Smile Cookie campaign, a delicious tradition with a powerful purpose, the Chestermere community raised a remarkable $13,410 in support of the Chestermere Women’s Crisis Society (CWCS). Every single dollar from Smile Cookie sales stayed local this year, with proceeds going directly toward programs and supports for women and families facing domestic violence or crisis situations in the region.
Local Tim Hortons owner Andrew Mariott, whose lakeside franchise is a staple in Chestermere, was thrilled to announce the total.
“Congrats to Chestermere! This year, you raised $13,410 that stays in our own community,” said Mariott. “All proceeds are going to the Chestermere Women’s Crisis Society. I hope everyone enjoyed their Smile Cookie—because every bite made a real difference.”
The popular week-long campaign ran nationally from April 29 to May 5, with each iconic cookie—topped with pink and blue icing smiles—sold for $1.50. Across Canada, thousands of restaurants joined in to support local charities, hospitals, food banks, and crisis centres. In Chestermere, Mariott and his team once again chose CWCS as the local beneficiary, highlighting their vital work in providing safe shelter, counselling, and advocacy for women and children fleeing abuse.
For CWCS Executive Director Lisa Martens, the campaign is more than a fundraiser—it’s a sign that Chestermere stands behind vulnerable members of the community.
“We are incredibly grateful to Andrew, the Tim Hortons team, and everyone who bought a cookie,” said Martens. “This kind of support isn’t just sweet—it’s life-changing. These funds help us meet the growing demand for crisis services and let local women know they’re not alone.”
The Smile Cookie initiative has grown steadily since its launch in 1996. What started as a small fundraising idea in Ontario has become one of Canada’s most recognized—and tastiest—charity campaigns. In 2023, the program raised over $19.7 million nationally, and the 2024 numbers are expected to surpass that as final tallies come in.
Mariott, who has owned and operated the Chestermere Tim Hortons for several years, says the campaign is always a highlight.
“The energy in the store is amazing during Smile Cookie week,” he said. “We see families buying cookies by the dozen, kids proudly holding up their icing-covered creations, and even emergency responders popping in for a box to take back to the station. It’s a true community effort.”
Chestermere residents also shared their enthusiasm on social media, with photos of cookies—and icing-covered smiles—filling local feeds. Volunteers from CWCS and other community organizations also helped decorate cookies behind the scenes, speeding up production during peak hours.
“Cookies may be small, but when you combine hundreds of them, they can create a huge impact,” said Martens.
As the city continues to grow, both Mariott and Martens are confident that Chestermere’s spirit of giving will keep pace.
“This is a reminder of what’s possible when a community rallies together,” said Mariott. “Thank you, Chestermere—you’ve done something incredible.”
For more information about the Chestermere Women’s Crisis Society or to access services, visit www.cwcshelps.com or call their 24/7 crisis line at (403) 775-2927.