The Warman Mennonite Special Care Home (WMSCH) is taking a creative, step-by-step approach to fundraising this year.
WMSCH board members, staff and volunteers traditionally host a one-day walkathon in early June to raise funds for amenities aimed at improving the quality of life for residents of the care home.
But the COVID-19 health regulations have tripped up those plans. Large public gatherings are not allowed.
In response, the WMSCH event organizers are encouraging people to walk five kilometers during the month of June as part of a 30-day fundraiser.
“The walkathon is a big event for us,” said WMSCH activities coordinator Zelma Peters in an interview June 3. “We’ve always gathered together as a group in the garden, taken pictures and then set out on the walk together.
“But unfortunately, this year a group setting is not permitted.
“We need to adhere to all public health rules, so we’ve come up with a way whereby people can still participate while still practicing physical distancing.”
Peters said the walkathon extends through the entire month of June.
“You can walk wherever you want to,” said Peters. “You don’t have to follow a specific route. Just pick your own five kilometer walk and make a donation to the care home.”
She advised people to practice physical distancing when obtaining sponsors for donations.
Funds raised during the event will be used to repair the exterior of the original portion of the care home, built in 1968.
“The building has been added to numerous times over the years,” said Peters. “But the original part was built over 50 years ago and it’s showing its age.
“The eaves and parts of the roof are all wood, and they are in need of repair. The big windstorm last week blew off a bunch of shingles from the roof, so they had to be replaced. And the soffit and fascia coverings all need attention; because otherwise we’ll get water damage later on.”
Peters said if the fundraiser goes well and there is money left over after the repairs, the WMSCH will purchase additional ceiling track lifts for individual residents’ rooms.
Sponsors can make donations directly through e-transfer to wmsch@saskhealthauthority.ca, or by mailing donations to the WMSCH. (See the ad in this week’s classified ad section of the Gazette for full details.)
Peters said while the care home residents are coping with the COVID-19 restrictions, they are hoping circumstances improve so they can once again receive family visitors.
“It’s very difficult for the residents,” said Peters. “Many of them don’t understand the reasons for the restrictions, and they miss the visits, the church services and the singing.
“They have gone through a lot in their lives, but nothing like this. I’m amazed at how resilient they are.”