Virtual 5K raises $37K for Milford homeless shelter
MILFORD — Despite being a virtual event this year, the annual Trick or Trot raised real money for the Beth-El Center.
The local nonprofit agency that provides services for people experiencing homelessness and hunger recently received a $37,030 donation from the proceeds of this year’s event, the largest in the nine-year history of the Trick or Trot and an increase of more than 20 percent from last year.
“As we expand our services to respond to the community’s needs due to COVID-19, we’re so (appreciative) of this overwhelming support as shown by the amazing participation in the Trick or Trot event,” said Executive Director Jenn Paradis.
Paradis thanked event sponsors Sikorsky Credit Union and the law firm Harlow, Adams and Friedman P.C., plus all the participants, donors and volunteers.
This year’s 5K road race was held virtually over Halloween weekend. Runners were encouraged to run alone or with a socially distanced group. The weekend also featured an online yoga class and virtual costume and trivia contests, plus video messages from
Paradis, Mayor Benjamin Blake, and various sponsors and supporters, including the Bridgeport Sound Tigers hockey team and local blues and rock band The Elwoods.
Paradis, in a recorded message to participants, said it was important to remember the purpose of the event.
“What’s really important to remember is why we walk and run,” she said. “It’s to support the individuals who are experiencing homelessness and hunger in our community, and to contribute to the programs and the services that can respond. This year, more than ever, we need you.”
Beth-El board member James Winkel of Harlow, Adams and Friedman, said that while the circumstances around the annual event were changed, the need had not.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of us, and the Beth-El Center is no exception,” he said. The center was unable to hold its annual gala, which is typically its largest fundraiser, he said.
“So your support is more important this year than ever,” he said. “Together we can create a community where everyone has homes, and all are fed.”
This year has been especially tough for the center and the population it serves, with meal service increasing about 70 percent, Paradis said. People experiencing homelessness also found that public spaces such as the library, mall and other public buildings closed down or began restricting access.
“When we first started to see the initial responses to COVID-19 in the Milford community and statewide, we committed ourselves to trying to expand our programs and services as much as possible while keeping things safe,” Paradis said. “We committed ourselves very, very early on that we would not close our doors and would open ourselves up as much as possible.”
To meet the demand, the shelter partnered with the local Motel 6 to help provide shelter and access to bathrooms and showers. The center’s soup kitchen also began serving bagged meals to go to protect clients and volunteers, and has opened up to 53 beds during to provide “nofreeze” shelter to those who simply need a place to get out of the cold.
The no-freeze shelter is open into April.