SC Johnson Powers Ongoing Delivery of YMCA Beyond the Bell™ in Brantford
07-10-2025
When the final school bell rings at Princess Elizabeth Public School in Brantford, the day’s most important learning is only just beginning. Thanks to a generous $35,000 donation from SC Johnson, the YMCA’s Beyond the Bell™ program will continue to give children the academic, social, and emotional support they need to thrive.
YMCA Beyond the Bell is more than an after-school program—it’s a lifeline for children from who face barriers to learning. At no cost to families the program combines recreation, academic support, nutritious snacks, and opportunities for social connection.
“SC Johnson’s generosity will allow us to continue delivering high-quality programming at Princess Elizabeth Public School that directly benefits children and families in Brantford,” said Joshua Austin, Director of Philanthropy at YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford. “Their support ensures that students have access to caring mentors, nutritious food, and engaging learning opportunities that make a real difference in their lives.”
Beyond the Bell doesn’t stop at academics, it builds stronger community connections by working in collaboration with local school boards, Indigenous communities (including Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Six Nations of the Grand River), and social service agencies.
The impact is clear: according to the YMCA Beyond the Bell Report Card, 72% of participants perform at or above their grade level in math, 91% say program leaders help them solve problems, and 92% of parents report their child is more motivated to learn.
Thanks to SC Johnson’s support, and in conjunction with the Ontario Ministry of Sport which also partially funds this site, children at Princess Elizabeth Public School will continue to discover their potential and build brighter futures.
#ShineOn #IgnitePotential #YSavesLives
Together, we can close the academic achievement gap.
