Hike for Hospice helps keep end-of-life programs and services free

Take a hike and support a good cause

The snow may still be falling but some are dreaming of spring and preparing for the eigh^th annual Hike for Hospice event on Sunday, May 7.

The hike is Hospice Huntsville’s largest fundraiser of the year, with funds going toward operational costs and to allow the programs and services offered to remain free for those who require comprehensive end-of-life care, including grief counselling programs for family members.

“The hike is a nationwide event, but each participating community keeps all funds raised in their own community,” said Melissa Polischuk, Fundraising and Public Relations Coordinator for Hospice. “The hike has grown tremendously, not only in the hike itself, but in participants, volunteers and community support.”

The organization is responsible for raising 50 per cent ($534,000) of their annual costs, the other 50 per cent comes from the Local Health Integration Network.

Last year Hospice Huntsville raised about $56,000 from the hike. They are hoping to do the same this year.

Polischuk said family and friends have found walking in memory of those they’ve lost to be a positive and meaningful experience, giving them a way to celebrate their lives.

It’s a way of giving back to the community but also raising awareness on end-of-life care. It’s important because it affects us all. As we go through life, at some point, you’ll be in need, whether it’s a family member, friend or your neighbour.Melissa Polischuk, fundraising and public relations coordinator for Hospice

There are a number of smaller events to help create awareness leading up to the hike to help reach the fundraising goal, including the Fill Our Boots, Purple Haze, Purple Painted Pedicures and Purple Tea Party campaigns.

Polischuk is also looking to increase membership in Hospice Huntsville’s 500 Club, a group of businesses and individuals who have committed to donating $500 a year to the organization. So far the 500 Club has 112 members.

“It allows for sustainable funding to go toward our annual fees,” she said, as they don’t know how much the fundraising events will garner on an annual basis.

This year, Hike for Hospice will start in River Mill Park at noon on May 7. To join the hike or make a donation visit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/hospice-huntsville/hospicehike/.

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