Halton Learning Foundation Launches Lesley Mansfield Fund – Seeds of Growth
September 23, 2025 – Burlington, ON
The Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) is proud to announce the launch of the Lesley Mansfield Seeds of Growth Fund. The launch took place at Granite Ridge Golf Club in Milton on Sunday, September 21, where family, friends, and colleagues gathered to honour Lesley’s life and legacy.
Lesley Mansfield, retired HLF CEO, beloved colleague, and passionate advocate for students in need, tragically passed away in February 2025. Known for her warmth, dedication, and love of gardening, Lesley devoted her career to ensuring that every student had the opportunity to grow and flourish.
The Seeds of Growth Fund honours Lesley’s legacy by continuing her mission: supporting the Halton District School Board (HDSB) students facing emergency needs such as food, clothing, school supplies, and other essentials.
“Supporting the community has been a passion throughout my career, and having the opportunity to help young people full-time through my role at HLF has been an honour and privilege. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who cared enough to make a difference for a student in need.” – Lesley Mansfield.
HLF has set an ambitious goal to raise $50,000 by December 31, 2025, enough to provide vital support for at least 200 HDSB students in Lesley’s memory. That’s just $250 per student — an amount that can make a life-changing difference.
John Pullen, Lesley’s husband, reflected:
“Each September, students begin the year extremely excited, setting goals and beginning with a renewed commitment to reach them. Unfortunately for many Halton students, the basic necessities of nutritious food, decent clothes and school supplies are a major challenge. This is where I am asking you to become ‘Lesley’. Help nurture and grow the potential of every student.”
Marc Clare, HLF’s CEO, added:
“Lesley believed deeply in planting seeds of opportunity for every child, no matter their circumstances. With this fund, we are carrying her vision forward — ensuring that her legacy of compassion and advocacy continues to grow in the lives of HDSB students.”
Contribute to the Lesley Mansfield Seeds of Growth Fund.
