The Breakfast Club at Oakville Arena, coordinated by Kelly Sweetland, has become an exciting program in the community that the kids look forward to every Wednesday morning. Sweetland has been instrumental in starting and expanding the program. The Breakfast Club began as a response to the underutilization of community spaces in Oakville. Sweetland recognized that the local rink could serve more community needs, particularly for families.
"When I moved here, I saw this space being underused. I thought, 'Why not turn this into something positive for the community?"
She explains how the program started.
"Initially, the program started as a simple breakfast service for local kids on Wednesday mornings. Then we applied for some grants and decided to use the funds to benefit the community. The kids love it, and the parents were so supportive that even after our initial funding ran out, they insisted we keep going."
This dedication then led to continued funding and the program's expansion, operating as a non-profit under the rink Oakville Rink Board. The Oakville Rink Breakfast Club is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers from around the community.
Sweetland details how she didn't even have to ask for volunteers.
"They just showed up. It’s been amazing to have such support. These volunteers help with everything from serving breakfast Wednesday mornings to walking the kids to school."
The Breakfast Club isn't just about serving meals; the program has expanded to include various activities that keep the kids in the community busy.
"We started with a basic skating program like opening up the ice in the morning but added other activities to keep the kids active and entertained. Like movie nights, opening up the ice surface to play basketball while the ice isn't in."
Funding for the program comes from a mix of grants, donations, and local business support. Sweetland highlighted the community's generosity, including a $500 donation from Co-op and ongoing support from local stores.
"We've been fortunate with donations, and we’re always looking for more. Whether it's gift cards, craft stuff, or other items, everything helps."
Looking ahead, the Breakfast Club will resume on September 18th, running from 7:20 to 8:20 A.M. every Wednesday. If anyone is interested in supporting or learning more about the program, you contact her directly at 1-204-302-0057 or visit their Facebook page