On any given sunny Saturday morning, you can find families enjoying the Irving Nature Park. This past Saturday, families were on trails with a purpose beyond taking in some fresh air; over 200 people participated in the first annual Run for Shelter at Irving Nature Park.

Run for Shelter is the result of two Saint John organizations coming together to help end homelessness; Coverdale Centre for Women and Outflow Ministry. Both organizations provide resources and support for people in vulnerable situations to find stable housing and create a better future for themselves. 

Mary Sauliner-Taylor, Executive Director for Coverdale said she is pleased to have community support behind them for their first run. “We could not thank the community enough for coming out and showing support. Hopefully this event will inspire people to volunteer and assist both Coverdale and Outflow beyond today.”

Jayme Hall, Executive Director for Outflow Ministry said he is encouraged to see so many families participate. “It’s important for Outflow and Coverdale to see families get together on homelessness and poverty initiatives. Through this collaborative effort we want to raise awareness of the people who are struggling on the streets.” 

Megan Donnovan and her children participated in the first annual Run for Shelter in support of Coverdale Centre for Women and Outflow Ministry at Irving Nature Park on September 10th.

“J.D. Irving is proud to be a sponsor of this event, and to host it at Irving Nature Park,” said Mary Keith, Vice President of Communications at J.D. Irving, Limited. “We appreciate the positive difference that Outflow Ministry and the Coverdale Centre make to the lives of so many in our community.” 

Megan Donnovan of Quispamsis raced the 5 kilometre event. Her children, ages 5 and 8, both raced in the kid’s 1 kilometer run. “This was a well-organized run and a great location. I would recommend this event to families who want to support a good cause and have a fun, active day together."

Learn more, donate or volunteer with Outflow and Coverdale Centre for Women.