THUNDER BAY – Steps for Life saw a record turnout in Thunder Bay this year, bringing Thunder Bay’s walk nearly on par with those taking place in bigger cities.
Steps for Life is the major annual fundraiser for Threads of Life, an organization that offers support and services to families affected by workplace tragedies.
“Walks are happening across Canada starting this weekend,” said Mika, co-chair of the local planning committee. “Today is also the National Day of Mourning. So there are ceremonies in the city and in communities and workplaces around Day of Mourning, acknowledging workers who have been injured and killed on the job.”
The walk has seen significant growth this year according to Mika who said that they nearly doubled their walker goal and already surpassed the fundraising goal.
“Last year we had 79 walkers, I believe- and at our last count, we were at 151,” she said. “We've exceeded our fundraising goal of $20,000. We will be well over $20,000 this year, which is great for a community of our size.”
For comparison, London, Ontario, a city nearly four times the size of Thunder Bay had 250 walkers participate- only 100 more.
Threads of life does not reach out to families who have been impacted by workplace tragedies. People have to know that they exist in order to access their resources, according to Mika who said everyone should take the time to learn what resources are available and raise awareness.
“It's important to raise the awareness that Threads of Life is an organization that fills a gap in some of the safety system where workers and families coworkers as well are impacted by workplace tragedies or by occupational disease and they don't know where else to turn sometimes,” she said.
“And a lot of people don't realize the resources that are available within their own workplaces and Threads of Life is just a part of that.”
Donations for the Steps for Life fundraiser are being accepted until the end of May. Find out more online.
