A special group of cyclists are scheduled to arrive in Penticton this Friday.
A total of 19 riders and their six support staff that make up the Cops for Kids fundraising expedition are expected here about 3 p.m. on the first leg of their annual journey.
The 10-day sojourn presented by the Thomas Alan Budd Foundation will take in 18 communities across the southeast corner of the province.
In addition to raising money, last year’s team managed to collect about $275,000, according to ride co-ordinator Courtney King, bringing awareness to the general public about children in medical, physical or traumatic crisis. And this year more than ever there is a great demand for the funds.
“For the first time ever we have a wait list that we’ve had to activate so we are expecting a shortfall this year in funding due to the overwhelming number of requests from families so we’re unable to meet the demand,” said King. “The reasons I think is that there is more need government cutbacks and there are a number of charities that have just run out of money. There is a charity in the Kootenay’s that has closed and now we’re receiving all of those requests.
“Cops for Kids have the unique opportunity to offer donors and sponsors the most efficient and effective way to make an immediate difference in the life of a child.”
All of the funds raised stay in the southeast district. Upon their arrival at the Penticton Subway restaurant at 2111 Main St. the group will be greeted by local dignitaries and some “Little Ambassadors.”
Those are the kids who are among those who benefit from the money raised by the Cops for Kids program.
Members of the public are urged to come by to meet with the team and have a photo taken with the team.
Accompanying the cyclists this year is the Subway Commit to Fit truck which will also be promoting Random Acts of Fitness.
As they have been in previous years, a number of service clubs, hotels, motels, restaurants and others will be supporting the cause by providing goods and services at little or no cost.
Daily updates will appear on the team blog during the ride. To follow the team along their journey or to make a donation please visit the website at www.copsforkids.org like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.