Runners and walkers in their finest red and green attire took to the streets of Ormstown in a colourful return to a group start for the 13th edition of the annual Rudolph Run/Walk on November 26.
A total of 145 participants took part in the festive in-person event, which raised at least $3,826 for the La Bouffe Additionnelle food pantry in Huntingdon. Organizers are hoping the final tally will continue to climb as donations come in from runners who opted to participate as part of the virtual run taking place between November 25 and December 3.
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Generous donations were also contributed by the O-Ho Quilters ($500) and the Genie in a Bottle Project ($160). “We are so lucky to live in a caring community even when times are tough,” says Grace Brown, who is one of several event organizers. “It was a fun morning, and we couldn’t have done it without our volunteers,” she adds.
The event brought together 22 volunteers, including five firemen and Dr. John Hortop, who was on hand to provide medical assistance if necessary. Another key element to the continued success of the event is the work of Ian Gill and Gerry Carrigan who work tirelessly to get the news out about the event, says organizer Darlene Schmid.
This year, the additional help will go a long way for La Bouffe Additionnelle, which is continuing to see greater demand for food aid in the region.
There is still time to participate in the virtual run/walk. A minimum donation of $5 per adult can be made in person or by e-transfer to labouffeadditionnelle@bellnet.ca, using the password “Rudolph.”
“We have such a generous community who love supporting this worthy cause,” says Schmid, noting the event has now raised over $40,000 to fund Christmas baskets since it first began 13 years ago. (SR)
