New format for Strides to End Homelessness

The Gospel Mission in Kelowna invites the community to their 10th annual fundraising 2K & 5K walk or 10K run, in their Strides to End Homelessness event Saturday, Feb. 27.

This year, due to COVID, rather than walking together, participants will walk in their own bubbles, wearing their Strides to End Homelessness toques.

With Kelowna’s help, the goal this year is to raise $50,000 to support the men and woman at the Mission’s emergency shelter and at Harmony Ministries, their women’s transitional homes. Services include meals, shelter, outreach, individual wellness plans and more.

This year, most of the fundraising is online. Once funds are raised, walkers have the option of dropping by 259B Leon Ave. between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to pick up a toque and snack bag. They can tag Kelowna’s Gospel Mission with a picture of their team on social media for a chance to win one of four Kelly O’Bryan’s $30 gift cards in a random draw.

“Strides to End Homelessness is a perfect event during COVID. People can put on their Strides toque and walk with their family bubble while reflecting on how important secure housing is,” Carmen Rempel, Executive Director, said. “We initially thought, because of COVID, that it would be tough to reach our goal this year, but to our surprise, this event has already raised over $38,000 and we expect to reach our $50,000 goal by Saturday. Our community has really stepped up this year to ensure no one in our valley goes without food for a place to live.”

Kelowna’s Gospel Mission thanks its presenting sponsor, Wishbone Site Furnishings, as well as sponsors, Peter’s Independent Grocer, Northern Computer, SpeedPro Signs, Rapid Printing and Omni Designs.

To participate in the walk, go to www.kelownagospelmission.ca.