Community Care Foundation’s Virtual Hike for Hospice is underway
Grab your hiking shoes, rollerblades or bicycle: the Community Care Foundation’s virtual Hike for Hospice is now underway. From June 1-30, participants can hike whenever, wherever and however they want to help raise funds for Community Care City of Kawartha Lakes’ (CCCKL) Hospice Services. To learn more, register, or donate, visit www.hikeforhospice.ca.
“Hike for Hospice is always one of the highlights of our year, and we’re proud to offer this opportunity to bring people together to remember, reflect, and celebrate the lives of those they’ve lost,” said Michelle Griepsma, manager, Hospice Services. “We are grateful to live in a community that is so connected, and we are excited for this chance for people to hike together, even while apart.”
This marks the second virtual edition of Hike for Hospice, and the 17th overall. Similar to last year, this pledge-based event encourages participants to get outside, pick a trail and enjoy hiking, walking, running or cycling throughout the month of June to raise funds for CCCKL’s Hospice Services. The virtual format was adopted in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that physical distancing is maintained and participants’ safety is put first.
Hospice Services provide invaluable supports to over 1,000 residents each year. Whether it is assisting them through the process of grieving a loved one, providing support through a life-limiting illness, or creating a comfortable end of life, its programs aim to improve the quality of life for people facing some of the most difficult situations imaginable.
This includes the new Standing Together and Receiving Support (STARS) program, which offers peer support for children (ages 6-12) and their parents or caregivers. Through virtual play and open discussion, participants are able to connect with others who have experienced the death of a loved one. The funds raised from Hike for Hospice help ensure that these vital supports remain in place and adapt when needed to serve those who need them.
“We’re extremely grateful that our community continues to embrace the Hike for Hospice,” said Toula Murchie, fund development director, Community Care Foundation. “Last year showed us that, despite difficult circumstances created by COVID, our community wants to come together in support of this valued and crucial service.”
Our local community continues to show their generosity. We are grateful to have an incredible set of local sponsors. Those sponsors include: Economy Wheels Nissan and TD (Presenting Sponsors); CIBC, Moynes Ford and Kawartha Dairy (Hike Heroes); and Bounce FM, the Kawartha Promoter, Kawartha Lakes This Week and The Lindsay Advocate (Media Sponsors).
