MOOSE JAW — Supporters of Square One Community Inc. braved the chilly evening air to take part in the third annual “Walk for Warmth” fundraiser, raising awareness and $19,120.80 for individuals facing homelessness recently.
The event, held in downtown Moose Jaw, drew a strong turnout as participants walked together along Main Street North, High Street East to the sound of peeling bells at St. Aidan Anglican Church, and around Crescent Park. Among them were Manny Peters and Melissa, two residents who emphasized the importance of community support as their reason for participating.
“We’re here to support our community. We believe that healing happens in community, so we’re just here to offer support and raise hope,” Peters said.
Melissa echoed those sentiments, adding that “We love the people who are homeless. They are somebody’s person, and they are people’s family. We want them to know that they’re supported in their journey.”
Following the walk, participants gathered at Zion United Church where the route concluded. Della Ferguson, one of the organizers, took a moment to express gratitude to the many sponsors and volunteers who helped make the event possible.
Ferguson recognized the event’s key sponsors, including RBC Wealth Management and its community fund, which contributed $1,500. Other supporters included SaskEnergy’s “Share the Warmth” program, Henderson Insurance, Minuteman Press, the Canadian Brewhouse, and Ottawa Real Estate.
Additionally, Medavie Health Services West, Moose Jaw Anavets No. 252, MLA for Moose Jaw Wakamow Megan Patterson, the Moose Jaw Fire Department, Moose Jaw Police Service, and students from Cornerstone Christian School and Westmount Elementary School were among the many who attended in support.
Councillor Chris Warren shared a few words after the walk. “This is another significant step forward in our efforts to secure the resources that are needed to support our community members. Your support tonight will make a tangible difference in the lives of many,” he said.
Ferguson then gave a shout out to Square One’s fundraising team.
“I want to highlight our fundraising team. They are the feistiest group of people… they were out there handing out hundreds of posters, talking, and encouraging,” she said.
Ferguson also commended the efforts of the roughly 95 walkers and 28 teams who joined the initiative, highlighting how participation grew in the days leading up to the walk.
“I want to thank the walkers and the teams. It was incredible to watch it grow every day, more and more great — literally to the last minute I was inputting your information. Thank you so, so much,” she said.
Square One continues to advocate for individuals experiencing homelessness and relies on fundraising and awareness events like “Walk for Warmth” to help provide essential resources.
To learn more visit SquareOneHousingMooseJaw.com, follow ‘Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw’ on Facebook, or email [email protected].
Editor's note: Since the publication of this week's edition of the Moose Jaw Express paper, Square One Community Inc. has announced that the total has increased from "roughly $13,000" to $19,120.80. This article has been updated to reflect this new information on March 18.
