Hundreds of Tri-Cities residents will walk in honour of a loved one this weekend in, what is arguably, one of the region's biggest fundraisers on the calendar.
Hike For Hospice has moved to Port Coquitlam for the 2023 event organized by Crossroads Hospice Society.
The 21st annual three-kilometre walk has also set a fundraising goal of $50,000, to which 100 per cent of proceeds are earmarked for end-of-life care and grief support in the region.
As of this publication (May 4), nearly $32,000 has been raised. The public can make a donation up until June 1.
"Hike for Hospice is a pledge-based, national, annual family event which raises funds to support people living with a terminal illness and their loved ones," the event's description reads on Crossroads Hospice Society's website.
The nonprofit stated that more than 150 volunteers are currently helping Crossroads with several branches of its services.
This includes the stand-alone hospice facility — located at 2773 Barnet Hwy. — that officially opened in 1988, thrift store (2780 Barnet Hwy.), healing garden and a support centre for family members.
"The purpose... is not only to raise much needed funds, but to raise awareness of the many challenges faced by hospice palliative care and to promote the wonderful work that all volunteers and professionals in the field perform daily."
Last year, organizers brought participants around Port Moody and the Burrard Inlet, circling city hall and out to the end of the dock at Rocky Point Park.
On Sunday (May 7), walkers will start at Hyde Creek Recreation Centre (1379 Laurier Ave.) and loop around the Traboulay PoCo Trail before turning back to the civic facility via Coast Meridian Road.
Hike for Hospice 2023 will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on May 7.
Organizers said the route is stroller and pet friendly, and interested residents of all ages and abilities are welcome to join.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own water bottle and local Lions Club members will host a by-donation barbecue lunch after the walk.
A map, registration, more information and options to donate to the cause can be found on Crossroads Hospice Society's website.
