Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, kids visiting Sault Area Hospital will now be welcomed by brighter, friendlier spaces after the unveiling of nine transformed Smilezones in pediatric areas. The project, funded by local Tim Hortons campaigns, aims to ease anxiety and bring comfort to children and families across the Algoma District.
Local Tim Hortons owners partnered with the Sault Area Hospital Foundation and the Smilezone Foundation to make the changes happen. Money came from the 2025 Tim Hortons Holiday Campaign and the 2026 Smile Cookie Campaign, with all local proceeds going to upgrades at the hospital.
The Smilezone Foundation’s design team worked over a single weekend to transform treatment rooms, exam rooms, and care spaces. The new areas feature colourful murals of local wildlife and landmarks, along with playful touches designed for kids.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together hospital foundation executive director Teresa Martone, patient care manager Monique Kevill, Tim Hortons owners Rico Fata and Ashleigh MacLeod, and pediatrician Dr. Sandra Stevenson. Patient Leah Sperry and Smilezone Foundation executive director Jackie Hames also attended.
“Thanks to their initiative, children and families in the Algoma District now have access to spaces specially designed to bring a smile to their care experiences,” the foundation said in a statement.
