HDSB schools raise more than $643,000 for cancer research through Relay For Life

By Halton District School Board - Jul 13, 2026

Spotlight on Schools

Halton District School Board (HDSB) secondary schools made an incredible impact through Relay For Life this year, raising more than $640,000 collectively in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. Thousands of students and staff participated in the annual event, demonstrating the power of community while honouring those whose lives have been affected by cancer.

Each Relay For Life event uniquely reflects its school community, but they all share a common purpose: celebrating cancer survivors, remembering loved ones and raising funds for life-saving cancer research and support programs. Throughout the day, participants take turns walking the relay track while enjoying games, activities, performances, food and fundraising initiatives. Many schools also host survivor laps and ceremonies that provide opportunities for reflection and remembrance.

Several HDSB schools achieved remarkable fundraising milestones this year:

Nelson High School raised more than $148,000, the highest total across the HDSB.
Georgetown District High School raised $140,122.04.
Iroquois Ridge High School raised more than $102,000.
Dr. Frank J. Hayden Secondary School raised $78,800.
Milton District High School raised $52,600.
T.A. Blakelock High School raised $34,994.
M.M. Robinson High School raised $34,330.
Burlington Central School raised more than $30,000.
White Oaks Secondary School raised $22,673.

Students and staff spent weeks preparing for Relay For Life by organizing bake sales, merchandise sales, lunchtime fundraising activities, barbecues and other initiatives that built excitement leading up to the main event.

Many schools also incorporated meaningful traditions that are central to Relay For Life. Ceremonies honoured cancer survivors and recognized those currently facing cancer, while luminary walks provided a quiet moment for participants to remember loved ones lost to the disease. Throughout the day, students took part in themed relay laps, friendly competitions and school spirit activities that reinforced the sense of community and hope behind every fundraiser.

The success of Relay For Life across the HDSB reflects the dedication of students, staff, volunteers, families and community partners who worked together to support an important cause. Every dollar raised will help fund cancer research, advocacy and support services for individuals and families affected by cancer.

Congratulations to every HDSB school that participated in Relay For Life this year. Together, HDSB students and staff have shown that when school communities unite around a shared purpose, they can make an extraordinary difference.