Sept. 1, 2026 — Halton Learning Foundation

On September 12, the community will come together for Sunrise Yoga in the Park at Spencer Smith Park, a morning of movement, reflection, and giving in support of Halton students facing financial barriers.

To learn more or to register for Sunrise Yoga in the Park, visit haltonlearningfoundation.ca/yoga.

Organizer Adam Doering is both a yoga enthusiast and a supporter of the Halton Learning Foundation (HLF). He decided to combine his passions when he launched Sunrise Yoga in the Park in 2022. The event attracts more than 100 yoga enthusiasts each year. Last year, the event raised around $45,000 for HLF.

Funds raised will be directed to the Mark Doering Thoughtful Fund at HLF, in memory of Adam’s late brother. Funds will support the Halton Learning Foundation’s work, which aims to help students in the Halton District School Board (HDSB) access essentials such as food, clothing, school supplies and opportunities to participate fully in school life.

The event, led by Burlington yoga instructor Claudia Bauman, is free and open to all. Participants are encouraged to make a donation to the Halton Learning Foundation, a registered charity that helps HDSB students overcome financial barriers to learning.

“My commitment to HLF and to my brother Mark is to raise $1 million over the next few years to help ensure that all students have access to things like healthy lunches, proper gym clothes, or the opportunity to participate in a school team or field trip,” said Adam. “These are things many of us assume are available to all kids, but are actually out of reach for many families in our community.”

Across Halton, families are struggling with rising costs, and too many children are starting the school year without the basics. During the 2025–26 school year, HLF responded to more than 2,600 requests from school staff to help students.

HLF provides grocery 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. Some students come to class with an empty stomach or wearing clothing that’s too big or too small.

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.

Register for Sunrise Yoga in the Park, visit haltonlearningfoundation.ca/yoga.