Shelterhouse 'Walk A Mile In Their Shoes' fundraiser set for Saturday

Don Reid, Coldwater Daily Reporter
·2 min read

COLDWATER — Monroe Street will be closed Saturday morning for the 14th annual “Walk A Mile in Their Shoes” fundraiser for the Branch County Coalition Against Domestic Sexual Violence.

The event grew over the past years from a simple high-heeled walk by local officials and the public to raise awareness and funds for programs.

The "Walk In Their Shoes" fundraiser was held rain or shine even through the COVID-19 pandemic to raise funds for the Naomi Davis Shelterhouse.
The "Walk In Their Shoes" fundraiser was held rain or shine even through the COVID-19 pandemic to raise funds for the Naomi Davis Shelterhouse.

For several weeks, participants have collected pledges online and in person for donations to support the Naomi Davis Shelterhouse on Michigan Avenue.

Coalition director Kim Hemker said, “The center provides a safe haven, advocacy and support services for survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault and their dependents.”

As usual, those drawing the largest pledges are the men who vow to make the round-the-block walk in high heels. 

BCCADSV holds the annual event to support and educate the community about domestic and sexual violence.

A 5K race is available for those who want to go faster.

Hemker said, “This event is unique because the entire community unites to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence which includes men.”

Even through the COVID-19 pandemic, rain or shine, the walk took place since 2011. 

The public can win donated gifts and items at the Balloon Pop, where $25 or $10 allows you to win the item listed inside.

You can win donated gifts and items with a $120 or $25 donation at 21 S. Monroe to benefit the Naomi Davis Shelterhouse.
You can win donated gifts and items with a $120 or $25 donation at 21 S. Monroe to benefit the Naomi Davis Shelterhouse.

This year’s schedule:

  • 7:30 a.m. 5K run registration opens

  • 7:30 a.m. Pancake breakfast available at the Broadway Grille

  • 8 a.m. Information booths open

  • 8 a.m. Balloon Pop opens inside 21 S. Monroe for prizes

  • 8:15 a.m. 5K Run/Walk opening ceremony

  • 8:30 a.m. 5K Running Against Domestic Violence starts

  • 9 a.m. Children’s activities open

  • 9 a.m. Project Connect partners are available with handouts

  • 9:30 a.m. 5K Awards Ceremony

  • 10:15 a.m. Walk A Mile in Their Shoes opening comments

  • 10:30 a.m. March Against Domestic Violence with Walk A Mile In Their Paws

Activities continue until 1 p.m.

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Registration for the walk is available online at https://www.278safe.com/register .

— Contact Don Reid: dReid@Gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Coldwater Daily Reporter: Shelterhouse "Walk A Mile In Their Shoes" fundraiser Saturday