|
World Smile Week was a wonderful celebration of joy, connection, and community as Smilezone partnered with organizations across Ontario to bring uplifting activities to children, families, and healthcare teams. From animal encounters to creative workshops and community events, each visit helped spread positivity and showcased the power of a simple smile.
Hands on Exotics – Humber River Hospital
We kicked off the week by joining Humber River Hospital for their first “Peas in a Pod: A NICU Celebration.” The event honoured families whose children began their journey in the NICU, and Smilezone was thrilled to partner with Hands on Exotics to bring along a Savannah cat, a parrot, chinchillas, guinea pigs, a tortoise, a rabbit, and a bearded dragon. Families were invited to meet and hold the animals, filling the day with excitement, laughter, and heartfelt moments—a warm and uplifting start to the week.
Cookie Decorating – EveryMind Centre
The Smilezone team spent an engaging afternoon at the EveryMind Mental Health Centre in Mississauga, where children and youth participated in a colourful cookie-decorating activity. Kids designed cookies inspired by dinosaurs, outer space, and all things bright and fun.
Hands on Exotics – Hamilton Child and Family Supports
Our next stop brought us to Hamilton Child and Family Supports for another exciting Hands-on Exotics event. Families had the opportunity to meet a parrot, hedgehog, guinea pig, ferret, rabbit, bearded dragon, and snake. Children were especially thrilled to touch and learn about each animal, and staff joined in the fun as well. The visit filled the centre with energy and big smiles, creating memorable moments for everyone involved.
Corporate Canine – St. Michael’s Hospital
On World Smile Day itself, Smilezone visited St. Michael’s Hospital for a heartwarming session of Canine Therapy. Therapy dogs Jacoby Pippin (Beagle) and Pluto (Maltipoo) greeted patients, staff, and families. Their calm presence and friendly demeanour brought comfort and joy, reminding everyone how meaningful small positive interactions can be in a healthcare setting.
Heroes Walk and Roll – Lansdowne Children’s Centre
To close out the week, Smilezone joined Lansdowne Children’s Centre for their annual Heroes Walk and Roll event at Brantford Park. Families and supporters dressed as superheroes and participated in games, activities, and a community walk celebrating inclusion, courage, and community spirit. The event was filled with colour, excitement, and togetherness—an inspiring end to an amazing week of smiles.
| 
