Winnipeg’s 11th annual ‘Running Day’ raises donations for charity

For most people, Boxing Day means spending time with family or hitting the mall to shop for deals.

But for Winnipeg runner Junel Malapad, it means Running Day, an annual event where he wakes up at 6 a.m. to raise donations for a cause.

“The first year, I ran solo just to get out for a run, the second year I learned about somebody passing away freezing on the streets, so I wanted to raise money for Siloam mission,” Malapad says.  “It’s the 11^th year.”

Each year, he goes out from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., running a loop around the downtown area, to raise donations for the organization that helps those experiencing homelessness.  Though this year Malapad had to sit out the run due to health issues, he inspired dozens of others to keep the tradition going.

“Junel is turning this day, Boxing day, into Running day, because we are raising awareness, getting community together so we can get funds raised, get groceries or any food towards the homeless community, because this winter can be harsh on anybody so we are just doing little steps so we can help,” said Hardeep Singh, one of the participants.

The community donated cash and essentials.

“Some people have been donating items, we’re filling up a truck here of urgently needed things, like toothpaste, clothes, sheets, pillows, anything you can think of that a person needs to live,” Malapad says.

By afternoon, nearly half of the $10,000 goal had been reached. 

Malapad says he wishes he were running this year, but seeing the turn out of runners, he is happy.

“People who know me know that running is my own way,” Malapad says. “But I’m very happy and grateful for today and the people who participated.”

Donations to Siloam Mission can be made on the organization’s website.