Helping those in need
Islanders raise more than $32,200 for Harvest House P.E.I.
Bayley Huizing and Danielle McGonnell know the needs of struggling Islanders can often go unseen.
The two Grace Christian School students were among 250 Islanders who aimed to raise awareness and funds for P.E.I.’s hurting, hungry and homeless this weekend. Bayley has been taking part in the Coldest Night of the Year walk since it began on P.E.I.
For the past six years, the walk has supported Harvest House P.E.I.
“It’s just an awesome way to not only support the homeless and hurting that are all around the world, but also just in our own community,” said Bayley. “We really don’t understand how in need some people are, even in our own little town.”
Danielle said it was her first year participating, but that she was aware of the good work accomplished through the walk. She’s also aware of the need and how often it can be overlooked. Islanders raise more than $32,200 for Harvest House P.E.I. in Coldest Night of the Year walk in Charlottetown Saturday.
“There is such a big need in our community and there are so many people who are hurting that we don’t see and that need our help,” she said.
The Charlottetown walk had raised more than $32,200 for Harvest House P.E.I. by the time of publication.
Executive director John Bennett, said that was about 80 per cent of a $40,000 goal to pay off
Harvest House’s mortgage.
“That’s amazing, it’s probably the best we’ve ever done,” said Bennett. “We can say the mortgage is almost paid for now, so that’s awesome.” Harvest House P.E.I. helps Islanders transition from destructive lifestyles to a healthier and more productive life by providing a faith-based addictions recovery program, as well as life skills, work ethics, education and spiritual well-being. Bennett said having the mortgage paid will free up more resources for the organization’s programs.
“And we’re making plans to do some renovations and give the place a bit of a spruce up,” said Bennett.
About 120 cities across Canada held similar walks on the weekend, with each being operated by a local, communitybased charity.
The walk’s theme aims to give participants a better understanding of the struggle of living on the streets during a cold Canadian winter.
While Saturday saw unusually mild temperatures for P.E.I. in February, the core message wasn’t lost on those who participated.
“The important thing is the concept,” said Grace Christian student Logan Ni.
“A light shines brightly among the hearts of the people contributing to our society, that’s what makes this event special.”