Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) CEO Marc Clare hit the road once again, completing a 110 km “Tour de Halton” bike ride across the region.
It took place on Thursday, April 24th. The goal was to raise funds and awareness for students in need within the Halton District School Board (HDSB). Clare, who also completed the ride last year – a story we covered here – was joined by five other riders for this year’s journey.
The ride is part of several fundraisers taking place during HLF Month in April, a time officially recognized by Halton communities and HDSB to celebrate and support the work of the Halton Learning Foundation. HLF provides emergency support to help students overcome financial barriers, offering essentials like food, clothing, school supplies, and access to learning opportunities.
“We’re riding our bikes to shine a light on the critical financial needs facing HDSB students,” says Clare. “The rising cost of living—and now the added pressure of tariffs and growing economic uncertainty—are making it harder than ever for some families to make ends meet. We have elementary students arriving at school without breakfast or warm clothes, and high schoolers balancing classes with multiple jobs just to help put food on the table. It’s incredibly difficult to focus on learning when you’re cold, hungry or stressed.”
The 110 km trek kicked off in Acton with stops in Georgetown, Milton, and Oakville before wrapping up in Burlington. Along the way, students and staff came out to cheer and show their support for the cause. So far this year, HLF has provided emergency financial assistance to over 2,800 students — a 23% increase compared to last year.
More than 34 school and community teams have participated in HLF Month, collectively raising over $21,000. Clare’s personal fundraising goal is $5,000, which would provide emergency support for about 20 students. Donations are still being accepted through HLF Month teams.
Next up, HLF’s signature event, Students in the Spotlight, takes place on Wednesday, April 30th at 7:00 p.m. at Burlington Central High School. The evening will feature live performances from talented HDSB students, with all proceeds supporting student needs. Tickets are available now.
HLF Month and Students in the Spotlight are presented by CN, who will match all donations up to $25,000, doubling the impact across Halton.
To learn more or donate, click here.
If you have a news tip or story idea, you can now send us a heads up via email at:
- News1013@LocalRadio.ca (Milton)
- News1015@LocalRadio.ca (Orangeville)
- News92@LocalRadio.ca (South Simcoe)
If you’d like to get ahold of me personally, shoot me a message at Cameron.Wilkinson@LocalRadio.ca. We’re in the business of content creation, so no idea is a bad idea.
