Northumberland County residents can lend their support to those impacted by gender-based violence by participating in an upcoming event in Cobourg hosted by Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre.
The registered charitable organization presents the 18th annual Walk A Mile, a family-friendly walk through downtown Cobourg, on Saturday, October 4.
As one of Cornerstone’s most impactful annual events, Walk A Mile has raised more than $608,500 over the past 17 years to help women, children, and youth access shelter, counselling, housing, and prevention programs.
Cayne Fordham, manager of fundraising and communications for Cornerstone, said Walk a Mile is important for a few reasons.
“This event is a reminder of what we can accomplish when our community comes together,” Fordham told kawarthaNOW. “By raising awareness and showing support, we’re building hope, connection, and a lasting impact in Northumberland County. We hope everyone comes out to join us and show their support.”
Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. outside of the Cobourg police station at 107 King St. W. in Cobourg. Breakfast will be provided by the Cobourg Lions Club, along with coffee from Pulse Coffee House and sweet treats from FrostBites.
The Cobourg Legion Pipes & Drums will once again lead walkers down King Street starting at 11 a.m., with this year’s event coinciding with Cobourg Harvest Fest, an annual family-friendly celebration hosted by the Cobourg Downtown Business Improvement Area.
“It’s such an uplifting day to see the community come together,” said Cornerstone executive director Nancy Johnston in a media release.
“Whether you walk solo or with a team, we invite everyone to join us in raising awareness and showing support. Bring your family, friends, and even pets for a morning filled with purpose and fun.”
While some participants don red shoes with high heels, all types of footwear are welcome. Registration is $20 for adults and $10 for youth under 18 years old. Walkers are encouraged to raise additional pledges to support Cornerstone’s work.
Johnston said the event is also made possible because of its sponsors, which include lead sponsor Ontario Line Clearing and Wharram Tree Service, challenge sponsors Canadian Tire Cobourg annd Post Consumer Brands, and more.
Matt Wharram, president and CEO of Ontario Line Clearing and Wharram Tree Service, said his team is also looking forward to the event.
“We are proud to support Walk A Mile, it is a feel-good event that brings people together and shines a light on issues that matter,” Wharram said. “At Ontario Line Clearing, we are committed to giving back and being part of positive change in our community.”
Registration is now open on Cornerstone’s website at cornerstonenorthumberland.ca/walkamile.
Residents can take part by walking in person or by contributing online to the cause. Both teams and individuals can show their support and create their own online fundraising pages through Cornerstone’s JustGiving platform at justgiving.com/campaign/cornerstonewalkamile2025, where donations to the cause and also be made.
Money raised from Walk A Mile will support local women, children, and youth impacted by gender-based violence. In 2024, Cornerstone served more than 3,000 people across Northumberland County.
