Toy Run raises funds for Crisis Centre

By Joan Janzen

Bikers were excited about getting together for the annual K-Town Memorial Toy Run in memory of Kindersley’s beloved Lincoln (Linky) Bairos. On Saturday, July 13th, thirty bikers lined up in front of the Kindersley Inn, bringing a toy and their $25 entry fee. All donations went to the West Central Crisis & Support Centre.

Kelly and Joan Phinney organized the event, which was attended by bikers from Kindersley, Eston, Eatonia, Rosetown and Burstall. Darrell Fitterer from Burstall posted: “Had a great time with good people!” His sentiments were shared by everyone who turned out for the day.

Thirty bikers participated in the K-Town Memorial Toy Run on Saturday, July 13th. In addition to the donation of toys, $3,000 was raised for the West Central Crisis & Support Centre. Photo by Joan Phinney

The bike run was approximately 350 kms on a sunny day with temperatures reaching 26 degrees. Fortunately, the forecast for rain didn’t happen.

Nothing captures people’s attention quite like seeing a group of 30 bikes travel down the highway. The group visited Rosetown, Biggar, Wilkie, Unity, and Kerrobert before returning to Kindersley.

Joan Phinney said they received $3,000 in donations, which had increased from last year’s fundraiser. Two tables were also piled high with toys, which will bring comfort to a lot of kids. There were raffle prizes for the bikers and door prizes for the guests.

“The prizes were donated from businesses in Kindersley, Rosetown and Saskatoon,” Joan Phinney said. “People are supporting it more and more every year, which is what we’re looking for. It is for a good cause.”

Michelle Webster from the Crisis Centre spoke to the sixty guests at the hamburger buffet supper held at the Kindersley Inn, who had donated the use of their banquet room. Michelle explained where the fundraising donations would be utilized. The centre has realized many families travel distances for their health care needs, and funds are always appreciated to help with the accompanying costs.

Michelle also explained the areas the Crisis Centre covers and where the toys go. “The toys support people who are having a rough go, and the toys give them a little bit of support,” Joan explained.

The riders are already looking forward to participating in the K-Town Memorial Toy Run next year!