Hamilton YMCA ‘Long Walk Home’ kicks off to raise funds for men’s residence

The second annual ‘Long Walk Home’ starts this morning to raise funds for the Hamilton YMCA men’s residence.

The walk began last September as a means to raise money after a destructive fire in the building in July displaced 174 people.

Eight dedicated walkers will each raise $2,500 and clock 72 kilometres through Hamilton, Burlington and Brantford in support of the ‘Y Saves Lives’ campaign.

Funds go towards mental health and addiction services, food security, room needs and clothing.

Last year the walk collected over $72,000 and currently the fundraiser has passed its $50,000 goal — and is still accepting donations.

Today’s walk started at 7 a.m. in Brantford and will end at the Flamborough YMCA with a stop for lunch at the Ancaster Fairgrounds.

Like last year, they’ll traverse various trails and camp out overnight.

Tomorrow the journey takes participants to the Ron Edwards YMCA in Burlington before wrapping up at the downtown Hamilton YMCA in the afternoon.

The third floor of the residence reopened nearly a year after the fire.

Currently, the men’s residence provides affordable transitional housing to more than 210 individuals in need.