The Say Yes! to Kids campaign, led by the Anglican Foundation of Canada (AFC), has become a transformative force for children and youth ministries across the Diocese of Niagara since its inception in 2021. Over the past four years, this initiative has inspired Anglican communities to support creative, inclusive, and impactful programs that nurture the next generation.
Since the Diocese of Niagara first joined the Say Yes! to Kids movement, local parishes and community ministries have received more than $43,000 to sustain and expand their youth programs. In 2021, the campaign funded projects like the Kids’ Spirit Reboot at Grace Anglican Church in Milton, the youth drop-in program at St. Luke’s Anglican Church in Smithville, and the 5G Project led by the diocesan Children, Youth & Family Ministry Network.
More recently, Canterbury Hills Camp received support to replace vital outdoor equipment, and All Saints Anglican Church hosted a Family Fun Day through campaign funding. These grants have made a tangible difference in helping children and youth build confidence, learn new skills, and grow in community.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Say Yes! to Kids campaign will focus on amplifying the impact of community-based programs like Canterbury Hills Camp, which has served young people in the Hamilton area for 65 years. As Canterbury Hills faces rising operational costs, the campaign will help replace aging Adventure Camp equipment—like tents, paddles, and lifejackets—to ensure campers’ safety and provide transformative outdoor experiences.
Sarah Bird, missional formation coordinator for the Diocese of Niagara, is passionate about the ongoing collaboration with AFC, stating, “The Say Yes! to Kids campaign has empowered our diocese to grow our youth ministries and respond to the evolving needs of children and families. This year, we are focusing on equipping the Canterbury Hills Camp with the resources it needs to continue making a difference.”
For every $20 donated to the Niagara campaign, $4 will support AFC’s Kids Helping Kids Fund to benefit national youth ministries, with a special emphasis on national Indigenous youth programs. Your support helps empower young people not only in Niagara but also across Canada. The Say Yes! to Kids movement continues to have a national impact, having provided more than $755,000 in funding to over 150 youth-focused initiatives across the Anglican Church of Canada.
To give generously to this year’s Say Yes! to Kids campaign in Niagara, please visit www.tinyurl.com/chsaysyes. For more information or to learn how you can support Canterbury Hills Camp, please contact Zya Aspden at 905-648-2712 ext. 3 or by email at [email protected].
Michelle Hauser is the development and communications officer for the Anglican Foundation of Canada
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