A weekend event warmed the hearts of a community and promoted an important mission.
Chippewa-Luce-Mackinac Community Action Agency (CLMAA) held its Walk for Warmth event at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct 1.
Approximately 80 people participated in either a 1k walk or 5k run.
Police officers from the city police department also joined in. They blocked traffic for walkers. Other participants included the Soo Eagles Hockey team.
“It's a good event for the community and team,” said Chase Tallaire, the team’s assistant captain. “It is to raise awareness for those who can't afford heat.”
CLMAA Information Technology Director Chris Smith showed up to the event with his seven-year-old daughter, Natalie.
“She wanted to come along,” he said. “It’s about helping others.”
The pair already have plans to walk next year as well.
City Commissioner Ray Bauer walked the 1k trek with his wife, Joan.
"We walk to show support for the community action agency and their efforts to raise money and awareness to help people through the winter, which as you know, is usually long," said Bauer.
"My wife worked for CLMCAA through the 90s, which is when we first became aware of the Walk for Warmth and the many ways it helps families and individuals. We try to help people when we can and show support when we can. As you know, we had that brat fundraiser for the CLMCAA efforts to help the homeless over the summer. Anytime you do anything positive to help, it makes a difference."
Bauer emphasized the importance of teaching younger generations how to get involved.
"My kids are in college and are very community-minded," he said. "I hope that, as part of the larger group, we set an example for them to help support causes such as the Walk for Warmth. At the very least we collectively can show these young kids that this is the way to be. Obviously, it's not just about those kids, but about helping the people who really need it."
"Now more than ever, we need community support to help people struggling with increased inflation costs," said CLMAA Director Joe Nolan. "We are gearing up for another winter and asking the community help to keep the heat and lights on for families over the next six months. From our needs assessment surveys, we found out people's biggest strength is community involvement and each other.”
Yet, an estimated 5,117 out of 36,816 Chippewa County residents live in poverty, according to the US Census Bureau in Dec. of 2021.
CLMAA will dedicate 100 percent of proceeds collected to families in need.
Chippewa-Luce-Mackinac Community Action Agency accepts donations all year-round. People can donate via Facebook, check drop-off, by mail, etc.
Chippewa-Luce-Mackinac Community Action Agency is located at 524 Ashmun St, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. Its phone number is 906-632-3363
