Walk for Water braves the elements
Walking - The sixth Walk for Water took place, as between 15 and 20 people walked from Stavely to Claresholm on Saturday, Sept. 22, raising for "Rays of Hope Uganda" an organization helping those in need in that African country. Photo by Rob Vogt
By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer
It was hard to imagine the heat and drought of Africa on Saturday morning, with rain falling and temperatures hovering around zero.
Yet, a brave and determined group set out from the Stavely golf club early Saturday morning, Sept. 22, to walk to Claresholm down Highway 2.
It was the sixth Walk for Water to raise funds for “Rays of Hope Uganda”.
Marilyn Gripping has led the effort since it started back in 2012, going every year since with the exception of 2014.
It all started when her family went to Akampala, Uganda in 2010.
“We saw the need there, worked with the people,” she said.
“We saw the people, got to know them.
“Saw how we could help them.”
The Walk for Water came out of that desire to help.
The funds raised in the walk this year will go towards finishing work on a sewing room and welding shop, which are part of a vocational training centre in Akampala. The idea is to give the people there the tools and skills to make money.
However, the funds may go to a more urgent need if required.
The walk attracted between 15 and 20 walkers, who huddled closely as they moved down the highway, braving the cold and drizzling rain.
In total, they were expected to raise about $4,000 to $6,000.
“It’s a good turn out, a good result,” Gripping said. “We’re happy with it.”