The annual Hike for Hospice has raised a record-breaking $136,000 for Hospice Peterborough.
Held for the first time in three years as an in-person event, almost 250 participants gathered on September 22 to walk in support of the non-profit organization that offers — at no cost to those who need it — support to individuals and families living with or affected by life-threatening illness and grief, including palliative care.
According to a newsletter from Hospice Peterborough, many of those who participated in this year’s event did so in memory of a loved one who had died.
The event began in Millennium Park with opening ceremonies that included drumming and singing by local women’s drumming group Unity and opening remarks from Hospice Peterborough’s executive director Hajni Hos, with a reflection from Hospice Peterborough’s supportive care counsellor and podcast host Red Keating and music by the Hospice Singers.
Participants then walked from Millennium Park to Roger’s Cove in East City, with the option to continue to the beach at Beavermead Park.
For the past 22 years, Hike for Hospice has been Hospice Peterborough’s largest annual fundraiser. It was held as a virtual event from 2020 to 2023 due to the pandemic, returning as an in-person event this year.
“Hospice Peterborough extends a massive thank you to hikers, donors, staff, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who made the event a success,” the organization’s newsletter states.
