Ruck 2 Remember Launches 142km Walk to Support Homeless Veterans

The Ruck 2 Remember organization has successfully completed a 142-kilometer walk from Windsor to Chatham to raise funds and awareness for homeless veterans. Founded by Lino Di Julio in Hamilton, the initiative aims to support various veterans’ causes through ruck-based challenges. This year’s flagship event, dubbed the “Road to Recovery,” took participants through several towns, including Amherstburg, Kingsville, and Comber.

Di Julio started the Ruck 2 Remember organization twelve years ago after seeking a way to contribute to the community, given his inability to serve in the military. “We do ruck-based challenges to raise funds and awareness for different veterans’ causes,” he stated prior to the event, which began at the Kingsville Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion (Branch 188).

Support for Homeless Veterans

The proceeds from this year’s event will benefit the Leave the Street Behind program, operated by the Royal Canadian Legion, which focuses on helping veterans transition off the streets. Since its inception, Ruck 2 Remember has raised approximately $1.25 million and assisted over 1,300 individuals experiencing homelessness.

Each year, Ruck 2 Remember invites participants to walk two kilometers for every first responder or military veteran who passed away the preceding year. This year’s event included a dedicated group of five walkers and two support team members who undertook the four-day trek. They enjoyed accommodations and meals provided by various Royal Canadian Legion branches along the route.

Community engagement plays a significant role in the success of the event. Di Julio remarked on the positive interactions experienced this year. “The region has been fantastic,” he noted. “Some of the friendliest people; lots of honks, people stopping to give donations. We definitely had a really good experience out here.”

Raising Awareness for Veterans’ Issues

Despite being a pressing issue, many Canadians are unaware of the extent of homelessness among veterans. According to a recent study by the Government of Canada, approximately 2,000 veterans are currently experiencing homelessness. Di Julio emphasized the importance of recognizing the stories behind these individuals. “Keep that in mind when you are walking down the street and see someone homeless,” he urged. “You don’t know their story.”

For those interested in supporting Ruck 2 Remember, donations can be made through their website at www.ruck2remember.com. The organization also offers a virtual event for those unable to participate in person, ensuring wider engagement in their mission to support veterans in need.