August 6, 2026 — Halton Learning Foundation
The Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) has launched its 2026 Back to School campaign, calling on the Halton community to help provide emergency support to 400 students in need, including food, school supplies, and clothing, for the Halton District School Board (HDSB) students who need it most.
Time is running out. The school year starts soon, and students like Grace can’t wait. Help before the first bell rings at GoBack2School.ca.
“Grace’s father passed away suddenly in the Spring, leaving her mom as the only income earner for her three children. As the new school year approaches, Grace’s mother is struggling to afford school supplies, clothing, and food, making it difficult to provide her children with the essentials they need to start the school year with confidence.”
Grace’s story is not unique. Across Halton, one in eight HDSB students faces the same reality.
Across Halton, families are struggling with rising costs, and too many children are starting the school year without the basics. According to the Retail Council of Canada’s latest consumer research on Back-to-School shopping behaviour, Canadian households spend an average of $600 to $750 per child when electronics are included, a figure far beyond reach for many Halton families.
“We know that the back-to-school season can bring added stress for families who are already facing difficult financial choices,” says Marc Clare, CEO of HLF. “For parents, not being able to provide their children with basic school essentials can be a source of worry and anxiety. Since inception, HLF has supported more than 30,000 students, and we know the difference timely help makes.”
“No family should have to choose between putting food on the table and a backpack for their child. 400 students in our community need help right now, before September arrives,” Clare added.
Don’t wait — students need help before September. Visit GoBack2School.ca today.
Double your impact — Help TWO students today
Become a monthly donor—or upgrade your current monthly gift—and thanks to the generosity of belairdirect, your monthly donations will be matched for up to one year, dollar for dollar up to $15,000.
That means you can help twice as many students head back to school with confidence, dignity, and the tools they need to succeed.
During the 2025–26 school year, HLF responded to more than 2,600 requests from school staff to help students. HLF provides gift cards instead of pre-packed supplies, allowing families to purchase what their children truly need, whether it’s a backpack, new shoes, or healthy snacks. This flexibility helps preserve dignity while ensuring students feel included, respected, and ready to learn.
As the only organization solely dedicated to supporting HDSB students, HLF works hand in hand with school staff to identify urgent needs and deliver help, typically within 24 to 48 hours.
To learn more, visit GoBack2School.ca.
