How we celebrated National Ice Cream Day while giving back to our community

This National Ice Cream Day, we’re taking a look back to last month when our crew paired up with Fête Ice Cream and Coffee to support the Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation (CRF) in the sweetest way possible.

As a beloved Winnipeg ice cream shop known for its small-batch, handcrafted flavours and community spirit, Fête Ice Cream & Coffee partnered with the CRF to create a special edition treat – the proceeds of which help support various CRF initiatives.

On June 12, Payworks ordered 400 Fête ice cream cups for staff to enjoy on our Head Office patio (and some additional sweet treats for staff in all of our regional offices too!). One of the most popular Fête flavours was the “Harvey Sisters’ Mix” – a vibrant, sprinkle-filled creation inspired by 2025 CRF Ambassador Claire’s and her little sister Emily’s love for all things blue and cake. Proceeds from the sale of each “Harvey Sisters’ Mix” treat support children and youth living with disabilities in Manitoba.

What kind of impact does the CRF make in Manitoba?

The CRF is a Manitoba-based charity “dedicated to helping children and youth live as independently as possible.” Working in partnership with the Rehabilitation Centre for Children, the foundation raises funds to support vital equipment, services, and programs that empower young people to reach their full potential.

At its core, the CRF believes that every child deserves the chance to experience independence, confidence, and inclusion, regardless of potential challenges. Through community support and donor generosity, the foundation brings this vision to life.

In Winnipeg and across the province, the CRF has a direct, life-changing impact. Here’s how:

• Providing essential equipment: The CRF funds adaptive equipment that isn’t always covered by public healthcare or insurance – for example, wheelchairs, walkers, specialized bikes, and communication devices. This support allows children to move, play, and communicate in ways that might otherwise be out of reach.
• Supporting inclusive recreation: From summer camps to adapted sports, CRF funds recreational programs that help kids participate, build friendships, and have fun in a safe, accessible environment.
• Funding therapy and research: The foundation also supports clinical services and developmental therapy, helping young Manitobans make meaningful strides in mobility, communication, and daily life skills.
• Fostering community connections: Beyond physical tools and programs, the CRF helps build a stronger community where families feel supported and kids feel seen, celebrated, and included.

Whether it’s through funding a bike that helps a child ride alongside their siblings, or creating opportunities for connection at an adapted camp, the CRF plays an essential role in building brighter futures for children and youth in Winnipeg.

Supporting the CRF through ice cream and beyond

At Payworks, giving back to our community is at the heart of what we do, and supporting the Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation is just one of the ways we pay it forward. Like the CRF, we believe in building a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

This year, we’re proud to share that we raised $495, which will go directly to the CRF’s incredible work. It’s a meaningful way we can help create brighter days for kids who deserve every opportunity to shine.

Alt text: Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation staff handing out Fête ice cream cups to the Payworks team

Thank you to everyone who’s donated to the CRF, enjoyed a scoop of the “Harvey Sisters’ Mix” and joined us in making a difference. Your support helps bring joy and independence to children across Manitoba.

Looking to join a team that loves to give back? Get to know us here: https://www.payworks.ca/about-us/careers.