Take Strides to End Homelessness on March 3.

The annual fundraising event brings in money to support Kelowna's Gospel Mission. It includes a family-friendly 5k walk or 10k run.

Its goal is to raise $45,000 to fund shelter programs, beds, meals, outreach, casework and the mission's 13-bed women's second-stage transitional home, Harmony House. So far, more than $24,000 has been raised.

“Everyone has a purpose in life, and mine is the attempt to make the lives of those around me better," says volunteer Stephanie Ostash.

"With a history of substance abuse and mental illness in my family, I know first hand that these issues can effect all kinds of people. This is why I am so grateful for the opportunity, over the last three years, to be volunteering in the Gospel Mission's kitchen, giving back to those in need." 

For more than 40 years, the mission has helped people struggling to meet basic needs move forward in their lives. Its individually tailored programs help vulnerable people find housing, income, family supports, mental health services, spiritual guidance as well as basic care. 

The walk leaves from the mission, and check-in is at 3 p.m., with runners leaving the starting line at 4 p.m.

So far, the top fundraisers is Steph Ostash with $5,550, and the top team is the KGF Striders with $4,675.

Ostash says seeing clients like Ken get back on their feet has been inspiring.

"Ken came to the mission at the rock bottom after his partner had just passed away. When I met him, he was drinking to the point of losing everything and was living at the shelter."

He's now been sober for a year and "has his own home, a job he enjoys, and volunteers his time at the mission in hopes of helping others."

Photo: Contribute