Fundraiser to support people experiencing homelessness

People are asked to run or walk to help the homeless this weekend in Kelowna.

Kelowna’s Gospel Mission holds its 11th annual Strides To End Homelessness at The Laurel Packinghouse at 1304 Ellis Street on Saturday (March 5). Participants have the option for 2 km and 5 km walks or a 10k run.

Check in starts at 2 p.m. with the walk starting at 3 p.m.

Chili and hotdogs will be served from the mission’s brand-new food truck after the walk and entrants will receive a long-sleeved Strides running shirt while supplies last.

The goal this year, with the help of 43 volunteers, is to raise $50,000 to support people experiencing homelessness and poverty in the Okanagan Valley.

“The Gospel Mission’s services cover a continuum of care from providing food and survival items on the street, to shelter beds and long-term transitional living,” a news release stated.

The mission also runs a low-cost dental clinic and two thrift stores.

Troy McKnight in community relations with the mission, said it’s exciting to see so many corporate and community partners come together to raise awareness and funds to address the challenges of homelessness in the city.

“People are thrilled to have the opportunity to meet in person again. Already, 189 people have signed up and raised almost $40,000. Our community cares deeply about finding solutions to homelessness,” said McKnight.

McKnight said it is more than just finding a home for someone.

“It’s working relentlessly to ensure that every person becomes a valued part of our community, is surrounded by people that care about them, and given the opportunity to pursue meaningful work that they can have pride in. We are committed to pour relentless compassion into people and end homelessness one person at a time.”

The Gospel Mission thanks its presenting sponsor, KRM, as well as sponsors, Peter’s Independent Grocer, Troika Management Corp., Porrelli Law, Doak Shirreff Lawyers, Omni Design, Artisan Raw Dog Food, MAIL-OMATIC, LTA Consultants, Speedpro Signs and Rapid Printing.

For more details on the event, click here.