Donor Spotlight: The Kindness and Smile Zone
The Kindness and Smile Zone knows that something as simple as a stuffed animal, a book or a favourite toy can bring comfort to a child during a difficult time.
Founded in London, Ontario by Ayona Jaswal when she was just 14, the youth-led organization grew out of her own time spent in hospital and a desire to bring kindness, comfort and joy to others. Today, it has grown to more than 60 volunteers around the world and has reached over 650 children and people.
Their recent donation to Merrymount included 100 stuffed animals, 27 books and 16 toy cars, each chosen to offer children comfort, encourage play and imagination, and bring a little joy to their day.
We spoke with The Kindness and Smile Zone about what inspires their giving, the story behind their organization and why even the smallest acts of kindness can make a difference. Continue reading to learn more about their work and what brought them to Merrymount.
Why did you choose to support Merrymount?
Our mission at The Kindness and Smile Zone aligns so closely with Merrymount’s, we both focus on bringing comfort, care, and joy to children and families during challenging times. Seeing the important work Merrymount does every single day through crisis care and mental health services made us eager to step in and support local children right here in our own community.
Was there a specific moment or story that made you feel connected to our mission?
The turning point for us was visiting Merrymount in person to deliver our donation. Stepping into a space dedicated to protecting, nurturing, and comforting children during their most vulnerable moments made us very proud of donating to the centre. Seeing the dedication of the staff made us realize how important it is to surround these children with warmth and reminders that their community stands behind them.
How do you choose the organizations or causes you support?
We look for organizations that prioritize the emotional well-being, dignity, and empowerment of children. We focus on causes where simple but meaningful items, such as plushies, educational books, or creative toys, can make an immediate and direct difference in a child's everyday life.
What led you to donate stuffed animals, books, and toy cars specifically?
We chose those specific items because they bring immediate comfort, imagination, and play. Stuffed animals offer a soft hug when a child needs security, books open up new worlds and build essential literacy skills every child deserves, and toy cars encourage hands-on play. Delivering 100 stuffed animals, 27 books, and 16 toy cars allowed us to offer practical items that bring genuine joy and a sense of home to children navigating tough times.
How do you see your donation making an impact on the children and families we serve?
We hope these items give children a moment of peace, joy, and distraction when they need it most. Beyond the physical items, we want the kids and their families to feel remembered, valued, and cared for by their broader community, knowing they aren't going through tough times alone.
What inspires you to give back to the community?
What inspires us most is the belief that no act of kindness is too small to make a meaningful difference. Seeing how simple acts, like collecting books or organizing donation drives, can bring a smile to a child’s face fuels our passion to keep growing and serving more children and their families.
What’s one lesson or value from your childhood that still guides you today?
Through my own health journey, I learned firsthand what it feels like to be in a vulnerable position. When you're going through a tough time, you aren't just looking for sympathy, you're looking for empowerment, kindness, and a reminder of your own strength. That experience taught me that empathy is a choice we can make. When you see someone facing a challenge, you don't just need to feel for them, but you can also reach out, uplift them, and give them the tools and comfort to feel empowered again.
What’s something you’ve learned from being a donor or community member?
We’ve learned that community impact is a team effort. Every single donation drive, activity pack, and plushie delivery is only possible because of generous donors, passionate volunteers, and supportive local organizations coming together for a shared cause.
What’s a fun fact about you/your organization that most people don’t know?
A fun fact about The Kindness and Smile Zone is that it was originally founded right here in London, Ontario, by 14-year-old high schooler Ayona Jaswal after spending significant time in the hospital herself. Inspired by that experience, what started as a local youth-led project has now grown into an international organization with over 60 volunteers around the globe! We have so far served 650+ children and people. Whether locally or internationally, our team is united by a passion for spreading smiles, hope, and comfort to those who need it most, no matter where they come from.
What message would you share with others who are thinking about donating?
Don't ever hesitate thinking your contribution is too small! Whether it's donating a single book, volunteering an hour of your time, or dropping off a stuffed animal, every bit of generosity adds up to create comfort and hope for a child in need.
