By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Julie Cole is no stranger to a good cause — especially when it comes to kids. The co-founder of Mabel’s Labels is set to host this year’s Breakfast Bash, the signature annual fundraiser supporting Halton Food for Thought. While the organization has been nourishing students in Halton for more than 30 years, this year marks the 15th anniversary of the Breakfast Bash, which will take place Tues., May 27, 2025, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Oakville Conference Centre.
“The Breakfast Bash really celebrates the hard work that everyone does,” said Cole. “It makes you realize the impact it’s having. Sometimes with volunteerism, you get a little fatigue…then you come to an event like this and remember why it matters. You leave inspired and motivated to stay involved.”
Halton Food for Thought (HFFT) has been fueling student success for more than three decades, quietly becoming a vital part of the educational ecosystem across the region. “It started with a few moms who noticed kids showing up to school without lunch,” Cole explained. “They wanted to do something about it, so they started making sure students had access to food at school. That was back in 1997, with just six programs. Now, there are over 150 school partnerships across Halton.”
HFFT’s model is intentionally inclusive and stigma-free. “You don’t have to register for it. You don’t have to prove that you need it,” said Cole. “Kids just walk in before the bell, grab some fruit or a croissant, and start the day with something in their belly. What’s lovely about it is that no one is singled out.”
The Breakfast Bash plays a crucial role in sustaining and growing these programs. This year’s fundraising goal is $95,000 — funds that will support five new student nutrition programs and help maintain the existing 152 partnerships already in place.
“That’s a whole bunch of little bellies,” Cole said with a smile. “There are schools already saying, ‘We want this, but we don’t have it yet.’ This will help bring it to them.”
As Cole pointed out, Halton’s population is growing rapidly, and so are food costs. “Even when you get base funding from the government, it doesn’t always meet the need. I made my kids fruit salad last week — it cost me $60! Feeding kids isn’t cheap, but it’s essential.”
One of the unique features of the Breakfast Bash is its bustling marketplace, which showcases local vendors from across Halton. “These local partnerships are huge. The vendors donate their time and their products, and help create an atmosphere that’s both fun and meaningful,” Cole said. “They get to network, promote their businesses, and be part of something bigger. It’s also great for team-building and community connection.”
This year’s participating vendors include Appleby College, Harper’s Landing, and Jacksons Landing (partnering together for the first time), Joe Dog’s Gasbar Grill, Martini House, Oakville Conference Centre, Rust Bistrobar, St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Secondary School, Mary’s Muffins, Milestones Burloak, and Pur and Simple Burlington North (the last three listed all new this year).
Speakers at this year’s event include Liam Rondeau, an HFFT volunteer, T.A. Blakelock High School graduate, and PhD candidate at the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute at McMaster University. Rondeau recently reflected on his experience in a blog post titled, “How breakfast at school changed more than just my mornings — reflections a decade later” (click here to read it on HFFT’s website). Other speakers will include HFFT Executive Director Aliya Khawari, Board Chair Eleanor Ramuscak, and Board Vice-Chair Prasad Samala.
The spirit of connection and community is what makes the event — and the organization — so special. “We’re food people, they’re food people. Let’s get together for a good cause,” Cole laughed. “And really, who isn’t a food person?”
With support from dedicated volunteers, generous vendors, and champions like Julie Cole, this year’s Breakfast Bash promises to be more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of community coming together to support the future.
So far, $62,613 has been raised toward the $95,000 goal. General admission tickets are $65 each, with half-tables available for $315 and full tables for $600. A silent auction is also running on the Food for Thought event page, where attendees can buy tickets and learn more.
There’s also a 50/50 raffle, with the draw taking place on the day of the event, May 27, at 9:15 a.m. EDT. Tickets are currently available at $10 for one, $20 for three, or $50 for ten.
Whether you’re attending to enjoy a hearty breakfast, support a great cause, or connect with community-minded individuals, the Breakfast Bash offers something meaningful for everyone — and a chance to ensure no student in Halton starts the school day hungry.
