YMCA raising money with Move for Kids

YMCA of Niagara is asking residents to get moving this Saturday to raise money for children.

The Move for Kids event taking place at all Niagara YMCA locations raises funds to support children from families with financial barriers that otherwise prevent them from being able to use YMCA services and programs. It’s the fourth year of the event.

The goal is to raise $ 75,000, which would exceed last year’s $ 63,494 raised. A media release from YMCA of Niagara said last year’s funds allowed 461 children to participate in YMCA programs such as swimming lessons and camp.

Zachary Pajtasz, YMCA of Niagara communications specialist, said in an email the event was started in order to raise money for YMCA’s annual Strong Kids Campaign, which supports the same initiative. Other YMCAs across Canada also take part in the Move for Kids event.

“It is also an opportunity to engage the community and bring awareness to the charitable work of the YMCA,” he said. Participants will be spinning, walking or running for one hour on Saturday. The event runs 8 a. m. to 1 p. m.

People are able to sign up or donate at moveforkids.ca, although there are limited spots remaining. Donations can be made ahead of time online or the day of the event at YMCA locations. As of Thursday afternoon nearly $ 30,000 had been raised.

The event is open to people of all ages, although children under age 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

YMCA of Niagara’s six locations are in Welland, Port Colborne, St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Grimsby.