Hike for Hospice coming to Port Perry next month

DAN CEARNS, The Standard

SCUGOG: In less than a month, the annual Hike for Hospice fundraiser will return to Port Perry.

This year, the annual fundraiser, in support of the Oak Ridges Hospice of Durham, will be held on Sunday, June 4th. The event will begin at Palmer Park. Registration begins at 9 a.m., with the walk taking place at 10 a.m.

At a meeting on Monday, May 8th, Meghan McLeod, Oak Ridges’ communications coordinator, provided some information on the Hospice and the event to Scugog council members.

“The Hospice offers a much-needed alternative to other care facilities, such as hospitals and retirement and seniors’ homes. Hospital beds are currently at a premium,” she said. “As you are aware, North Durham has seen quite a turnover with new people settling, leaving the city for a much quieter and engaged community. So, this year, we are focusing on community engagement.”

Last year, the Hike for Hospice raised over $100,000 and had over 200 participants. Ms. McLeod called the annual event the Hospice’s “best fundraiser.”

Ms. McLeod challenged Scugog Township to register a team for the event and encouraged councillors to challenge neighbouring municipalities to do the same.

Registration to take part this year is $25 per person and includes a hike t-shirt and a barbecue lunch.

Oak Ridges Hospice is located at 1722 Scugog Street, beside the Immaculate Conception Church. For more information on registering for the event, go to www.oakridgeshospice.com.