Mountain Grannies remain committed to helping African grandmothers

CANMORE – The Mountain Grannies may not be able to host their popular annual chili-bowl fundraiser, but they want to let the Bow Valley know they remain committed to helping African grandmothers. 

Chair Marilyn Wilson said that support will continue through an virtual Stride to Turn the Tide walk or hike this year as a fundraiser for the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

"We love the fact people seem to look for the chili-bowl [fundraiser] in particular, and we will have it again," Wilson said. "We have pivoted a little, by having a virtual Stride to Turn the Tide." 

The community is invited to participate online and can record any form of physical activity including walking, hiking, cycling, golfing, gardening and playing tennis during the month of June. 

"This is in our minds to be in solidarity with the African grandmothers," Wilson said, as they also have to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The Mountain Grannies have supported the Stephen Lewis Foundation since 2007 with the two annual events. 

"It is one of the few organisations that seems to, as far as we can understand, go truly to the grassroots in sub-Saharan Africa in 15 countries and finds ways there to reach out to the community and find out what they need," Wilson said. 

The Grandmothers-to-Grandmothers campaign in Canada has provided $33 million to support African grandmothers taking care of grandchildren orphaned due to HIV-AIDS since 2006. Stride to Turn the Tide has raised more than $2 million. 

Wilson said since the campaign began addressing that emerging crisis more than a decade ago, it has expanded its support across a spectrum of needs and in particular supports community-based organizations that support the grandmothers and grandchildren. 

Go to the Stride to Turn the Tide website to register, or donate. 

Wilson said there wer tickets to the chili-bowl event sold in the community and refunds are available. Contact [email protected] to make arrangements. 

"The Mountain Grannies truly appreciate the support of this community over the years," Wilson said.