(Margaret Duncombe/Facebook)

By Derek Craddock

RIDE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Over $37K raised during first-ever Ride for Refuge

Oct 5, 2022 | 10:33 AM

Dozens of people took to their bikes and shoes to raise funds for mental health services in Prince Albert.

The first ever Ride for Refuge hit the city on October 1 with funds raised going to support Catholic Family Services (CFS).

The international event first came to light in 2004. Every year people from Canada and across the globe cycle or walk to help support local charities.

Margaret Duncombe was the event director for this year’s ride and was overwhelmed with the turnout.

“It couldn’t have been better,” she said. “I think we had about 60 bikers or more and about 40 walkers and about 30 volunteers.”

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The goal this year was to raise $44,000 to go toward CFS. As of Tuesday afternoon, just over $37,000 or 85 per cent of the fundraising goal was achieved.

(Rideforrefuge.org/princealbert)

Duncombe added 80 of the money raised goes directly to mental health supports at CFS with 20 per cent helping cover the costs of the event.

“We had some various generous donations from people who supported the cause of supporting mental health,” Duncombe said. “As a fundraiser for our organization, it was 10 out of 10.”

Among those who generously gave their support were Canadian Tire and owner Malcolm Jenkins, Northern Lights Casino, and the Rotary Club of Prince Albert.

With such a great turnout and success in year one, Duncombe is hopeful they’ll be back next year.

“We certainly hope to but we’re meeting the evaluate the full event and get the feedback from our committee and our board. We just need to check with everybody to see how we feel.”

More details on this year’s Ride For Refuge and how you can continue to support the initiative can be found on the event’s website.

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Derek.craddock@pattsionmedia.com

Twitter: @PA_Craddock