Tim Hortons Camp Day does it again: A record $11.8 million raised!

Camp Day continues to raise record numbers through coffee sales and generous donations to help send more than 16,000 kids to camp

OAKVILLE, ON, June 10, 2013 /CNW/ - Tim Hortons generous restaurant owners and loyal guests came together again to raise a record $11.8 million for the Tim Horton Children's Foundation's biggest fundraiser of the year. The money raised on Camp Day will help send more than 16,000 economically disadvantaged kids in Canada and the U.S. on a life-changing experience.

On Camp Day, more than 4,000 Tim Hortons restaurant locations in Canada and the United States generously donate all proceeds from coffee sales to the Tim Horton Children's Foundation (THCF) and host fundraising events to raise additional money for the camps. Last year's event raised a record $11 million, giving more than 15,000 kids the opportunity to experience the positive impact of a Tim Horton Children's Camp.

"Breaking the cycle of poverty and helping economically disadvantaged children aspire for a brighter future is at the heart of Tim Horton Children's Foundation," said Dave Newnham, vice president and executive director, Tim Horton Children's Foundation. "None of this would be possible without the support of our loyal guests and dedication of our Tim Hortons restaurant owners and team members. Thank you to everyone who bought a coffee and made a donation to help make this year's Camp Day a great success."

In addition to purchasing a Tim Hortons coffee on June 5, guests had the opportunity to directly support children in their community and send even more kids to camp by texting a $5 donation, donating online or making a donation in restaurant by purchasing a $1 Rent-a-Tent or $5 Rent-a-Cabin. Guests can also contribute year-round through sendakidtocamp.com and THCF coin boxes at Tim Hortons restaurants.

"Each and every donation made on Camp Day and throughout the year has the power to change the lives of children in your community," added Newnham. "The donations not only give thousands of deserving kids the chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity each year, but it can make a lasting impact as children who attend our camp often return home with a more positive attitude and greater confidence about their future."

The Tim Horton Children's Foundation started in 1975 in Parry Sound, ON with just one camp and 200 kids. It now operates six year-round camps across North America and has served more than 180,000 kids through its innovative year-round programming. Children attend one of three types of programs offered, including a traditional summer camp (ages 9-12), a year-round camp serving schools and youth groups (ages 8-18) in the fall, winter and spring, and a five-level youth leadership program focused on building lifelong leadership skills (ages 13-18).

Tim Hortons restaurant owners work closely with local youth organizations and schools to identify children in their community who would most benefit from an experience at camp. This camp experience is often the first time a child has experienced camp or travelled outside their town or city. While at the THCF camp, kids participate in a wide range of first-class programs and activities designed to build self-confidence, self-esteem and leadership skills. The powerful life experiences learned at THCF camps come at absolutely no cost to the kids and their families.

Tim Hortons Inc. Overview
Tim Hortons is one of the largest publicly-traded restaurant chains in North America based on market capitalization, and the largest in Canada. Operating in the quick service segment of the restaurant industry, Tim Hortons appeals to a broad range of consumer tastes, with a menu that includes premium coffee, espresso-based hot and cold specialty drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos and espresso shots, specialty teas and fruit smoothies, home-style soups, fresh Panini and classic sandwiches, wraps, hot breakfast sandwiches and fresh baked goods, including our trademark donuts. As of March 31^st, 2013, Tim Hortons had 4,288 system-wide restaurants, including 3,453 in Canada, 808 in the United States and 27 in the Gulf Cooperation Council. More information about the Company is available at www.timhortons.com.

About the Tim Horton Children's Foundation 
The Tim Horton Children's Foundation (THCF) is a non-profit charitable organization founded in 1974 that is committed to providing an enriched and memorable camp experience for children and youth living in economically disadvantaged homes. The Foundation's funding comes from Tim Hortons Camp Day, fundraising activities, special events, and year-round public donations collected through counter and drive-thru coin boxes, as well as other donations. Since 1975, more than 180,000 children have attended a Foundation camp at no cost to them or their families. For more information about the Tim Horton Children's Foundation, please visit www.thcf.com.

SOURCE: Tim Hortons