Running For Shelter Puts Community Support In Motion

Bud Miller All Seasons Park was busy on Sunday, September 27, as runners, walkers, families and community supporters came together for the third annual Running for Shelter.

The event, held in support of the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, brought over 50 registered runners to the 5K, while hundreds more came out throughout the day to support the event, enjoy the activities and learn more about the work being done in the community.

Running for Shelter was about much more than crossing the finish line. The afternoon included food vendors, music, a kids’ zone and plenty of opportunity for people to visit and spend some time together while supporting an important local cause.

Funds raised through the event support the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter and its continued work toward expanded programming, education, counselling and transitional housing. Transitional housing remains a major focus, helping bridge the gap between emergency shelter and permanent housing while giving individuals additional support as they work toward greater stability and independence.

Lloydminster Men’s Shelter CEO Allan Bartolcic said one of the things he has seen is an openness within the community and a willingness to have conversations surrounding homelessness and housing. While Lloydminster sits on both sides of the provincial border, he said residents tend to identify themselves simply as Lloydminster, making it important to find approaches that work for the community as a whole and continue building that sense of community.

Lloydminster Mayor Gerald Aalbers also spoke about the importance of the shelter and the work being done for those in need. He said the community needs to continue looking for ways to improve the lives of those who are less fortunate, and every opportunity to make life better for vulnerable residents is appreciated.

Organizers had set a fundraising goal of $50,000 for this year’s event, with money raised supporting expanded shelter services and transitional housing initiatives.

Local businesses, donors, vendors and community partners also stepped up to help make the day possible, including providing food and other support for the gathering.

Bartolcic said every registration, fundraiser and person who comes out to support Running for Shelter helps the organization continue working toward longer-term solutions. The event also provides an opportunity to bring people together in a positive setting while keeping conversations around homelessness and housing going within the community.

With three years now behind it, organizers are looking at ways to continue growing Running for Shelter, with hopes of turning it into an even larger full-day family event in the future.