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Five for Five

August 2026

Five of the Top Stories at Five Counties this month!

How one family had their fears replaced with hope

When Maureen and Jason Hyde first sought support for their children, the couple was facing uncertainty and worry.


More than a decade later, the Hydes credit Five Counties Children’s Centre with helping their family (pictured here) navigate challenges, build confidence, and celebrate milestones every step of the way.



From speech therapy and communication support to guidance for autism and ADHD, Five Counties has helped Elizabeth, Edward and Isabelle thrive in their own unique ways.


"Five Counties replaced our fear with hope, support and the belief that our children would thrive," Maureen says.


Read the Hyde family’s story and discover how community support helps give local children and families encouragement, hope and access to life-changing treatment that is close to home.

Hyde family
Little Lakers Night 2026

The Hyde family, along with Five Counties CEO Scott Pepin, took part in the ceremonial ball drop before the start of Little Lakers Night on July 16 in Peterborough.

Little Lakers Night scores big again for Five Counties

A record-breaking $19,000+ was raised at the fourth annual Little Lakers Night, thanks to the incredible support of Peterborough Lakers fans, sponsors, volunteers and community members.


The evening combined exciting lacrosse action with family-friendly fun, all in support of helping local children and youth access life-changing treatment services through Five Counties Children’s Centre.


“What an incredible night for Five Counties kids, Lakers fans and our entire community,” says Scott Pepin, CEO of Five Counties Children’s Centre. “Raising more than $19,000 is a remarkable result, and every dollar will help children and youth access the life-changing treatment services they need. We are deeply grateful to the Peterborough Lakers, our sponsors, volunteers, donors and everyone who came out to make Little Lakers Night such a memorable success.”


Read the full story to learn how the community came together, meet some of the families impacted by Five Counties’ services, and see how this special event is making a difference across our region

Celebrating another year of success at Five Counties

Our CEO Scott Pepin is out with the latest Five Counties blog. Read more about what Scott has to say about the year that was at Five Counties in 2025/26:


"You may have heard reference to the rat race, but what do you make of scooter races? For me, it’s been one highlight of many in the past year in my role as CEO at Five Counties Children’s Centre.

 

"The scooter race started innocently enough last summer when one of our clients, Hamish, came for his weekly treatment sessions at our Peterborough site. I got to know Hamish and his family well, and from there, evolved a friendly competition between us to see who was the king of speed.

Scott and Hamish race down the hallway
Rocket launch at Five Counties

"Hamish is one of thousands of children and youth with physical, developmental or communication needs that Five Counties supported over the past year in Peterborough, Northumberland County, City of Kawartha Lakes, and Haliburton County. In fact, during 2025/26, the Centre served 6,574 kids/clients – the highest number in our 50+ history!

 

"That number is out of this world, and brings to mind the Artemis II crew members who captivated us earlier this spring with their successful flyby of the Moon and their safe return to Earth. In looping around the far side of the Moon, the spacecraft crew went further from Earth than anyone in human history.

 

"The Artemis II exploits bring to mind the words of Norman Vincent Peale, an author best known for popularizing the concept of positive thinking. Peale once said: Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”

Introducing our new Kids'/Clients' Rights declaration

Client Rights and Responsibilities poster

The Doctor is in: Dr. Chris Montgomery at your service

Video introducing our new consultant pediatrician, Dr. Chris Montgomery

Five Counties Children's Centre is pleased to introduce Dr. Chris Montgomery to our Centre and community.


Dr. Montgomery is an experienced, well-respected Consultant Pediatrician whose practice is now based at Five Counties in Cobourg. From here, Dr. Montgomery sees infants, children and adolescents for a wide variety of medical problems by physician referral only. Dr. Montgomery relocated his long-time practice from Oshawa to Cobourg earlier this year.


Five Counties is thrilled to have Dr. Montgomery join us. While he continues to see children and families through his independent practice, Dr. Montgomery is also supporting Five Counties clients and families.

Save the dates: Events galore are in store

Cruise Night at Craftworks

Cruise Night at Craftworks every Thursday in summer


Enjoy classic cars, live music, great food and family-friendly fun at the Lions Cruise Night hosted by the Fowlers Corners and District Lions Club every Thursday through Sept. 10 (weather permitting) at Craftworks at the Barn (124 Lindsay Rd.) in Selwyn


Five Counties is one of the local charities that is benefitting from Cruise Night in 2026. While there is no admission fee, donations are welcome – and you're encouraged to take part in the 50/50 draw. Look for our popcorn booth on Aug. 13 and Sept. 10. We hope to see you there!


Click here to learn more.

Mike's Bike Ride for Kids

Mike's Bike Ride for Kids gears up on Aug. 9


Join former Five Counties client Mike Hannah as he pedals from Omemee to Lindsay in support of Five Counties Children's Centre! Mike is back with Mike's Bike Ride for Kids on Sunday, Aug. 9.


Come out and cheer on Mike's fundraising ride, or donate to support him in raising funds for kids' treatment services at Five Counties in Lindsay. Mike's ride starts at 10:30 am behind the TD ATM in Omemee and wraps up at Noon at Boston Pizza (435 Kent St. W.) in Lindsay. Show your support by making a donation!


Click here to donate.

Kids' Night Power Wheels Race

Kids' Night Power Wheels Race Returns on Aug. 22


Rev up the fun at a thrilling Power Wheels Race Night for kids -- all in support of Five Counties.


This exciting, family-friendly evening returns on Saturday, Aug. 22, starting at 6 pm, at Kawartha Downs (1328 County Rd. 28) in Fraserville. The event offers young racers (ages 4-8 years) the chance to take to the track to race in their own battery-powered vehicles. Entry fee is $25 per person.


Space is limited, so register now to avoid missing out on the racing action.


Click to register now.

Couture for Kids 2026

Couture for Kids is Back with fashion fun on Oct. 1


Step into an evening of style, fun, and fashion at the third annual Couture for Kids fashion show on Thursday, Oct. 1! Doors open at 6 pm, with the fashion show starting at 7 pm. The event in support of Five Counties takes place at Celebrations Lindsay (35 Lindsay St. N.).


Enjoy a showcase of the latest looks from local clothiers: Brittany N Bros, Bonita Clothing & Co, Cathy Allan Ladieswear, John G’s, Homethreads Boutique, and The Lingerie Loft. Along with the runway excitement, take part in raffles and a fun atmosphere for all!


Get your tickets now!

 

For more Centre-related updates, check out our Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and our website for resources and information.

Five Counties values your ongoing support in ensuring our Centre can provide the best care possible for children and their families. We are making investments in equipment and resources to ensure we can provide the same professional, prompt and caring services we always have.

You can send us an email through info@fivecounties.on.ca or give us a call and we will connect you with someone who can answer your questions.


Peterborough City and County - 705-748-2337

Northumberland County - 905-377-0192

City of Kawartha Lakes - 705-324-9320

All Areas Toll-Free: 1-888-779-9916

Charitable Business Number #12397 6342 RR0001
 
 
FIVE COUNTIES CHILDREN'S CENTRE | www.fivecounties.on.ca
 
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