Ride Don’t Hide gets parked for 2020; CMHA launches campaign

Jun 11, 2020 | 1:37 PM

The 8th Annual Ride Don’t Hide planned for this month has been cancelled due to Covid-19.

The cycling event, which was set for June 14 at Creekside Park in Coldstream, reduces the stigma around mental health and raises funds for local programs.

In it’s place, Vernon’s Canadian Mental Health Association has launched a fundraising initiative called, ‘In This Together – COVID-19 Community Crisis Response’ to meet the increased demand for Crisis Line services and its nutrition program.

“More than ever, our programs and services are desperately needed in the community,” said Julia Payson, CMHA Vernon executive director. “We know many are struggling emotionally and financially, but for those who are able to help, we are most grateful.”

CMHA has transitioned most of its programming to online and phone-based services and added new programs including Phone Buddy to meet the need for social and emotional support for isolated community members. Staff and volunteers have also prepared, packaged and delivered more than 2,000 freezer-ready meals since mid-March and began food hamper delivery service last month. The Crisis Line has received a record amount of calls with 90 per cent of the increased calls being related to COVID-19 concerns.

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To date, more than $40,000 has been raised for ‘In This Together’ including a $15,000 grant from the Community Foundation of the North Okanagan and $10,000 from the United Way of South Okanagan Similkameen. Interior Savings Credit Union and TD Canada Trust contributed generous donations to CMHA’s COVID relief initiatives, in addition to donations from individual community members.

“We are incredibly thankful for the support we have received. We hope to reach our $60,000 goal by the end of July to meet the need that would have been fulfilled with our Ride Don’t Hide event,” said Payson.

CMHA is thanking the early supporters of the event who stepped up before the pandemic with donations and sponsorships. Bannister Automotive’s lead gift of $10,000, brings their support to $42,000 over the past four years. Dr. Loland and Taves Dental Clinic, Sterling Centre Remedy’sRx and Watkin Motors were also early supporters to this year’s Ride event. Generous support also included Tim Hortons as Breakfast Sponsor, SUBWAY as Lunch Sponsor and Ladies World as Warm Up Sponsor. Media sponsors included Beach Radio, Castanet and Vernon Morning Star.

To donate to the ‘In This Together – COVID Response Campaign’, visit www.trellis.org/together.

by Pete McIntyre

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