Manitobans prepare to move muscles and raise millions
An army of volunteers will be in Canada Safeway stores across the province this weekend, including Steinbach, to raise funds and awareness for local families dealing with muscular dystrophy. Over 135 volunteers will be manning information booths in the stores. With their help, Canada Safeway hopes to raise over $1 million for cutting-edge research, mobility equipment, and support services for those dealing with neuromuscular disorders.
Every August, Canada Safeway partners with Muscular Dystrophy Canada during the Make Muscles Move Campaign. Last year, through the efforts of staff and the generosity of their customers, Canada Safeway raised over $1.1 million across Western Canada. In Manitoba, this represented 10 pieces of mobility equipment for local families, worth over $40,000; items like power wheelchairs or elevating leg lifts.
Amanda, a volunteer going to a Safeway store in Winnipeg, says “I appreciate being able to help those fighting muscular dystrophy – and being a part of something so huge, what a great opportunity.” We encourage Safeway customers to give generously when they see Amanda, or any of our 135 volunteers, because the needs in Manitoba are growing. Applications to Muscular Dystrophy Canada’s equipment program increased by 200% between 2010 and 2011.
A portion of the funds raised will also be used to fund research. Muscular dystrophy affects individuals in varying degrees, but two things remain constant – the disease progresses and continually robs a person of their mobility, eventually affecting their eating, their breathing, and is, all too often, fatal. Secondly, there is absolutely no cure. Our Canadian researchers are working for the future – the clients you will see in the store on August 18 and 19 know that they might eventually die from this disease, but it is their hope that fundraising efforts today will find a cure to save tomorrow’s generation from this disorder.
Safeway stores across Canada are supporting Muscular Dystrophy Canada by offering 5 Air Miles for every $2 donation made between August 1st and 31st. Volunteers will be raising awareness of the campaign on August 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and August 19 from noon to 4 p.m. The volunteers in Steinbach will be in the store on Saturday, August 18, between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
