Cops for Kids fundraiser could be rolling into your town

KELOWNA –  Twenty-eight riders and seven support people from RCMP and supporting enforcement agencies within South East District will embark on the 15th annual Cops for Kids Ride on Friday, Sept. 9. The 2016 ride will take the team across the South Eastern corner of British Columbia, to raise awareness and essential funds for children in medical, physical or traumatic crisis.  

During their 10 day fundraising journey, Cops for Kids riders will cycle into 18 different communities across South Eastern British Columbia, facing some challenging terrain and possible inclement weather conditions along the way. The route includes the assent and decent of two mountains passes: the Anarchist Mountain and the Paulson summit.

These encounters will remind each rider of the challenges that some children, our Little Ambassadors, face on a daily basis and it will serve to keep them focused to complete their journey to help better the lives of these children. Funds raised from this event fund specific items required by children facing illness, disability or traumatic crisis.

Along their route, they’ll be greeted by local dignitaries and their “Little Ambassadors” who receive funding from the annual fundraiser. Members of the public are encouraged to meet with the team for a photo at their stops in each community. For President Gail Harrison, it’s these little faces that serve as a reminder of why we must all work together to fill the gap for funding needs.

“We’re seeing families in tough situations when tragedy strikes their family. A family can’t plan for a crisis, so it’s important that Cops for Kids can be there financially when they need us most,” Harrison says.

Cops for Kids are grateful for the generosity shown by all of our communities within our region.

“Our riders join us from detachments throughout the South East District, and they’ve each raised a minimum of $2,000 through various fundraising efforts in their own community. We’ve got great corporate sponsors, individual donors and service clubs who help us raise the essential funds we need. During the ride, local community groups, restaurants, and hotels generously extend their hospitality to our team.  Saving on these costs allows us to put all of our efforts towards the children, keeping our costs low,” Ride Captain, Julio Krenz says.

Donations are graciously accepted at any time. To follow the team along their journey or to make a donation, please visit the Cops for Kids online.