The Fleet Diving Unit (Pacific) is working towards supporting more than 700 families on the West Shore this upcoming holiday season.
This is the eighth year of the run, which supports the Goldstream Food Bank’s Westshore Christmas Hamper program.
The goal is to raise enough funds to donate the equivalent of 700 turkeys through the hamper program to families in need.
The food bank doesn’t actually buy hundreds of turkeys but gives a dollar amount through a food card.
“The card stipulates that it is for a meat product instead of having to go out and buy that many turkeys, that would be quite a task,” explained retired Lt. Chief Petty Officer Walter Dubeau, who is a food bank volunteer.
But unlike previous years, this year divers won’t be running through West Shore streets collecting donations.
Instead, they are hosting a five kilometre or 10 km trail run at Thetis Lake Regional Park.
The run starts at 8 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 26 at the main beach and the event will wrap up at around noon.
There is no age restriction for those who would like to participate and each runner is required to pay a $25 run fee.
Post race, there will be a reception and silent auction at Four Mile Brewpub (199 Island Hwy.) from 6 until 9 p.m.
Proceeds generated from the two events will help the Goldstream Food Bank through the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign.
To register, go to ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=51133.