Stride for Shelter
Stride for Shelter is an inaugural, community-led peer-to-peer fundraising event designed to raise funds and awareness for youth experiencing homelessness in Stratford. Stride for Shelter is proud to partner with Shelterlink Youth Services, Perth County’s local organization dedicated to supporting youth experiencing homelessness and at risk of homelessness. As the beneficiary of the event, Shelterlink will receive all funds raised to support its emergency shelter and prevention services for vulnerable youth in the community.
During this 24-hour overnight community challenge participants will come together at Stratford Education and Recreation Centre (SERC) on November 21st to run, walk, or support a track loop every hour on the hour for 24 hours.
With the support of Mayor Martin Ritsma, Stride for Shelter aims to raise awareness of youth homelessness while generating direct, measurable impact.
In the event’s inaugural year, our fundraising goal is $35,000 in celebration of Shelterlink’s 35th Anniversary.
This is more than a run, it’s a community moving for youth who need us.
$35,000 = 15 beds for 1 month
$35,000 funds 15 beds for 1 month, Shelterlink’s full capacity.
$35,000 = 1 bed for a year
$35,000 funds 1 bed in our shelter for a full year.
About the Event
Stride for Shelter is a unique, community-driven endurance event designed to bring awareness and action to youth homelessness in Stratford.
Over 24 hours, participants commit to running (or walking) a loop each hour, creating a powerful shared experience of solidarity, resilience, and community support. While having a glimpse of the experience of an unhoused youth overnight in the cold.
Join the movement. Every loop makes a difference
Details
- Date: November 21 10am- November 22 10am
- Location: Stratford Education and Recreation Centre (SERC)
- Format: 24-hour continuous community relay
- Distance: 2km loop every hour
- Fundraising Goal: $35,000
- Registration Fee: $50
How you can participate
Register to Run- COMING SOON!
Join as an individual or team participant and take on the challenge of completing 2km every hour for 24 hours, or choose a portion that works for you. Registration Fee: $50
Registration will open August 15, 2026
Every lap helps move us closer to our $35,000 goal.
Donate to a Runner
Support a participant or team by making a pledge per lap or a one-time donation.
Your support fuels every step taken.
Corporate Sponsorship
Businesses can make a meaningful impact by sponsoring Stride for Shelter.
Sponsorship Levels: $300 – $3,000
Sponsorship helps cover event costs and directly supports programs for youth experiencing homelessness in Stratford. Benefits include community recognition, brand visibility, and alignment with a powerful local cause.
To discuss corporate sponsorship please contact: strideforshelter@gmail.com
Why It Matters
Youth homelessness in our community is real, and growing. Stride for Shelter raises both critical funds and awareness, helping ensure young people in Stratford have access to safety, housing supports, and a pathway forward.
Every stride taken during this event represents hope, stability, and change.
Be part of something bigger than a run.
Register. Donate. Sponsor. Stride for Shelter.
