Photos by: Birra Ahmed
Giving back to the community is part of the Ahmadiyya’s faith. The spirit of generosity com was on display Sunday May 14, at the second annual Run for Milton. Funds raised went to the Milton District Hospital Foundation (MDHF.)
It was organized by volunteers. “Supporting our local healthcare system, we’re helping our community to have better facilities, and equipment to serve them better,” Race Coordinator Shazia Saeed said. The Ahmadiyya’s have been organizing these charity walks for local hospitals all over Ontario.
Opening ceremonies began with speeches from dignitaries. “It’s events like this, and people like you who come forward to celebrate the hospital by having a fundraising activity,” Foundation board Chair Brian Penman told the crowd during opening ceremonies. The foundation is in the final stages of its fundraising campaign. They ended with a lively auction which included items such as an autographed Maple Leafs hockey stick.
Participants had the choice of 1, and 5km routes starting from the Mattamy National Cycling Centre. Mainmoona Lawq walked the 1km with friends. She took pride in helping the community. “It was a lot of fun, especially going towards a good cause; raising money for our local hospital,” she said of the experience. She previously participated in the walk for Vaughn hospital. This year organizers estimate they had 400 walkers, who helped raise approximately $5,000.
The MDHF’s goal is to raise $30 million towards the hospital expansion. As of May 14, 2017, they had raised $28 million. The expansion will triple the size of the current hospital and feature a new Emergency room, as well as Maternity ward, and an MRI machine. “The advancement of the hospital benefits us all,” Saeed said.
The hospital is due to open October 1, 2017. For more information on the Milton District Hospital Foundation please visit their website: www.mdhf.ca Planning is underway for 2018’s Run for Milton. To keep up-to-date developments visit their website: www.runformilton.com
