Mother and Daughter Duo Making Waves in East Coast Tim Horton’s
Tim Horton’s is a long time sponsor of Special Olympics Canada, but they do more than support an inclusive world, they embody that themselves. Don’t take that from us, but from Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador Athlete and Tim Horton’s employee Chelsea Earle.
Now a high school graduate, Chelsea got involved in Unified School Programs when she was still studying at Ascension Collegiate.
A 5-pin bowler and bocce player, in 2024 Chelsea got to compete at Special Olympics Canada National Games in Calgary . She had nothing but good things to say about traveling to a new city across the country, competing in 5-pin, and meeting new people. However, travelling has not always been easy for Chelsea.
“The first time I traveled without mom was when I was in high school,” Chelsea said, “our unified team went to Ontario to compete in the 2019 Youth Games.
I remember it was really exciting and fun, one of those moments you don’t forget. It’s a trip that will always stay as one of the best.”
Patricia—Chelsea’s mother—has been working at Tim Horton’s for over 15 years, and asked the owner of her restaurant if it would be possible for them to hire someone with a intellectual disability.
“It’s a very fast paced place to work,” Patricia added, “but they did say yes, they would try to see how it would turn out.”
Chelsea started working three hours a week, and was slowly given more time to work as she got comfortable in the job. With her official title of baker’s helper, Chelsea is now working 20 hours a week at Tim Horton’s.
“She does quite well, does a lot on her own.” Patricia said about working alongside her daughter, “Patricia does baking, cleaning, and decorating donuts. I’m glad Tim Horton’s put a chance on her.”
As if that wasn’t enough, Chelsea also keeps the restaurant clean.
“I keep the dishes going,” she said, “load up the dish washer, sweep the floors, and make sure to have clean tables for everyone.”
Like many Tim Horton’s establishments across the country, the place Chelsea and Patricia work sell the limited time Special Olympics Canada donut every February. During this time, the two of them even welcomed in some local athletes to come into the kitchen and make their own donuts.
“With me, having a child with a disability,” Patricia said, “our Tim Horton’s’ owners supported Chelsea, and they donate fundings raised to our athletes to make programs almost cost-free to them. It’s a big thing.”
“People like Chelsea are gold,” Patricia said, “they deserve to be given a chance to shine.”