Nov. 9, 2026 — Halton Learning Foundation
For a child without a winter coat, the walk to school in November can feel a lot longer. This season, more Halton students than ever are heading into winter without the basics they need, and the Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) is calling on the community to act. Through its No Student Left Behind campaign, HLF is working to make sure that no student in the Halton District School Board (HDSB) has to face the cold, or the school day, unprepared.
Students like Megan need our community’s support to get ready for winter.
“Megan and her mother have been evicted from their home, leaving behind most of their belongings. They are in the process of moving in with relatives for a temporary housing plan. With winter approaching, Megan would be grateful for support to purchase warm winter clothing.”
Will you make a donation today at nostudentleftbehind.ca? Your gift will help students like Megan stay warm and ready to learn.
“The need we’re seeing right now is unlike anything we’ve seen before, and it’s growing every week,” said Marc Clare, CEO of HLF. “A coat, a pair of boots, or a grocery card may seem small, but for a student in crisis, it can change everything. Together, we can make sure every child in Halton has what they need this winter.”
One parent recently shared the profound impact of HLF’s support:
“I just wanted to say a big thank you for the grocery gift card for my family and children. Your kindness and generosity mean so much to us. This support will help us create some special and happy moments together as a family. I truly appreciate you thinking of us and making this possible. Thank you so much for your kindness and support!”
“Stories like this illustrate the life-changing impact community support can have on students and families in crisis,” Clare added.
November and December are the busiest months at the Halton Learning Foundation. Last winter, an average of 14 students each day needed clothing and food in Halton. Over the full 2025-26 school year, HLF responded to more than 2,600 requests from school staff to help students.
The “No Student Left Behind” campaign ensures that students across HDSB have access to warm winter clothing, nutritious food, school supplies, and emergency financial support.
Rising need across Halton
Since the beginning of this school year, HLF has already supported around 780 students with urgent assistance, from groceries to clothing to school supplies. Requests continue to rise as families face increased financial strain and cost-of-living pressures.
HLF staff work directly with principals, social workers, and school staff to identify students who need immediate help. Many families turn to HLF when they have nowhere else to go.
HLF is calling on individuals, businesses, and the community to consider making a gift to support HDSB students with financial needs. For more information on how to support the “No Student Left Behind” campaign, please visit HLF’s website at nostudentleftbehind.ca, and you can contact HLF at info@haltonlearningfoundation.ca.
