What if the only hospital you knew was unusable? What if the maternity ward in that hospital had no equipment?

The fundraiser is happening in collaboration with Islamic Relief Canada (IRC), and Run for Palestine, which is a Toronto-based non-profit athletic group. It raises money for “charities operating in Palestine and Palestinian refugee camps in the Middle East.”

“Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza is the only hospital that provides health and maternity services for the residents of the north Gaza, that is why we need your help to fund the equipment and furniture, such as examination beds, blood pressure devices, ECGs, and wheelchairs, all of which will be provided by Islamic Relief Canada to facilitate a dignified environment for pregnant women and their newborn babies,” explains Sohaila Amiri, one of the lead organizers for the event. (Photo above).

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“Islamic Relief Canada has been supporting the Fort McMurray community for years with food hampers, winter kits for the homeless, and food bank donations, to name a few. Run for Palestine has partnered with IRC for this event, which happens in major cities across Canada. We have been collaborating with the Edmonton chapter to bring Run for Palestine to Fort McMurray.”

There will be a 3 km race for ages 7-14, 4 km race for ages 15+ as well as a 3 km walk.

“This is a family event for all ages. We want to raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, as well as promote an active and healthy lifestyle. There will be Palestinian art for sale and a barbecue with all proceeds going to the cause. We are hoping for a great turnout and make this an annual event along with cities all across Canada. We ask participants to dress for the weather, eat a healthy breakfast, stay hydrated, and have fun,” adds Sohaila, who has been living in Fort McMurray for almost four years.

Tickets are $35 per person, or 5 tickets for $155 and can be accessed via Eventbrite here.