The NOTL 4 All Facebook group took part in Sunday’s Hike for Hospice Niagara at Canada Games Park in Thorold and contributed more than $1,228.
The fundraiser brought together hundreds of participants to remember loved ones and help fund end-of-life programs in the region.
Hospice Niagara, which serves all of Niagara, depends on community donations for nearly half its operating budget.
Alicia Merry, Hospice Niagara’s director of marketing, communications and fund development, said the event provides comfort and connection for those coping with loss.
“We really appreciate everyone who participates, whether you’ve experienced a loss of a loved one or you just want to be part of a movement for hospice palliative care.”
The annual Hike for Hospice has continued for over 25 years and is one of the organization’s main fundraisers. This year’s goal was $95,000, with donations accepted until the end of October.
Funds support care in residences in St. Catharines and Welland and help expand new facilities planned for Fort Erie and Niagara Falls.
Merry said Niagara-on-the-Lake residents regularly access hospice programs, including grief support and day services, often in partnership with the town’s community palliative care service.
The NOTL 4 All team, called Walk4All, formed after a member asked in the group’s 21,000-person Facebook forum if anyone planned to join the event. Founder Blair Cowan decided to register a team on behalf of the group.
“NOTL for All is really a community group,” said Cowan. “This isn’t something that’s in our community, but it’s something that we all deal with.”
Cowan’s daughter, Jenna, a volunteer with Niagara-on-the-Lake Community Palliative Care Service and a master’s student in public health, said joining the hike was a natural way to give back.
“When you’ve grown up somewhere, it only makes sense to support the people around you,” she said.
Group administrator Daniel Turner said the team’s effort reflected the kind of grassroots action the online community encourages.
“We’re just very thankful to have a great community to live in and want to be able to give back,” said Turner. “It just feels right.”
Merry said Hospice Niagara’s growth means more local residents will have access to compassionate end-of-life care closer to home.
“We are bringing hospice care to everyone in Niagara and making it closer to home,” said Merry.
Community members can continue to donate to the Hike for Hospice Niagara campaign through the end of the month, with next year’s event already being planned.
