Strathmore helps grant two wishes

Times Reporter

 

The sixth annual Walk for Wishes for the Children’s Wish Foundation, CWF, was held this past Saturday, Oct. 15 at Kinsmen Park. The walk is just one of the many fundraisers held throughout the year in Strathmore.

“These events are very important in raising funds for The Children’s Wish Foundation. Without funding from the generous support of community businesses and individuals, The Children’s Wish Foundation would not be able to grant the wishes that they do,” said Christie Anderson, who organized Strathmore’s Walk for Wishes this year.

Since 1984, the CWF has worked to be able to grant wishes to over 17,000 children with a life threatening illness and their families. 

The average cost of each wish is $10,000, providing children and their families with something to look forward to and often a distraction, if only for a short time, from their illness. Since 2005, the Wishmaker Walk for Wishes has raised over $1.3 million nationally.

The CWF is the single largest wish-granting organization in Canada. This year they expect to grant over 1,000 wishes, and are proud to have never refused a wish to an eligible child. It is because of the help of volunteers and donors who make it possible to grant three wishes a day. 

In Strathmore the first annual movie night raised $9,225.77, and had 800 people in attendance. Between the silent auction, the jellybean dance, local donations, and the Walk for Wishes another $11,015.52 was raised. The grand total raised in Strathmore is $20,241.29, which means two children will be able to have their wish granted.

“A wish can breed hope and strength; it can foster laughter and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Anderson.

“The wish granted has a far-reaching ripple effect. For each child who’s wish is granted, there is a vast network of parents, friends, siblings, classmates and caregivers who are affected. To give these children hope, something to look forward to and a way to distract them from their illness is invaluable. The wishes allow the whole family to have lasting happy memories.

“None of these totals would be possible without the hard work and hours spent by our committee members and volunteers. The community support has been fantastic as with every year. Special thanks to The Strathmore Lions Club for putting on our pancake breakfast for the walk as well as hosting the concession for the Movie Night,” said Anderson.

She continued on to thank the Ag Society, ReMax, Huxted, Chinook Credit Union and the countless businesses and individuals that donated money or items to support this wonderful cause.