Steps for Life raises $10K
More than
$10,000 was raised in honour of victims of workplace tragedies on May 2 at
the 2nd Annual Steps for Life Walk.
Some 300
people braved cold, wet weather for the walk, proceeds of which will all go to
Threads of Life – the national advocacy and support organization that aims to
reduce the impact of workplace tragedy on its victims.
“The
weather didn’t do anything to deter those who realize what an important cause
this is,” said Mike Waite, President and CEO of Safety Services Manitoba, one
of the local event hosts. “Every penny raised will directly impact someone
whose life has been changed by workplace tragedy. That’s such an important
support system for those who often feel helpless and alone when a loved one is
killed or seriously injured on the job.”
Tami
Helgeson and her family walked in memory of her son Eric, who was killed on the
job in Winnipeg
11 years ago. She says they were all overwhelmed by the support shown today.
“I truly
did feel alone after Eric was killed,” she says. “And then I found Threads of
Life. Today, more people know the program exists and every person who walked
not only helped fund programs that help victims like us, but also helped raise
awareness of the importance of workplace safety.”
Approximately
three Canadians died every day as a result of workplace injuries and illness in
2009. Threads of Life funds many programs for victims of victims’ families, including
family support programs, peer support, links to community support services,
advisory support for investigations, and inquests and injury prevention and
awareness initiatives.
Steps for
Life took place in 28 communities across Canada. In 2009, 14 communities
raised more than $158,000.