Great Lighthouse Rescue ready to raise cash and save castaways
THUNDER BAY — With a cold wind coming off the lake, the Great Lighthouse Rescue announced its second year on Thursday.
Hosted by United Way of Thunder Bay (UWTB), a boat of castaways will be "marooned" on the break wall at the lighthouse to raise money for community agencies on Saturday, June 1.
Albert Brulé, CEO of UWTB, said each participating community group is tasked with raising $2,000.
"They're going to have to send an SOS, support our services call, to raise money to mount a rescue operation to bring them back safely to the marina," he said.
Brulé said there's even an anonymous donor that will match donations up to $15,000.
In its first year, the event raised $80,000 for community groups, including Our Kids Count (OKC). This year, upwards of 18 local agencies are expected to participate.
Jackie Knough, CEO of OKC, described how fundraising like this helps run programs.
"The United Way provides funding for our food security program. They also provide funding for our Big Brothers Big Sisters program, and we have an emergency short-term childcare program."
When it's time to rescue the castaways, the Royal Canadian Navy and members of HMCS Griffon will provide assistance aboard a 24-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat.
The public is encouraged to join in the fun and enjoy free kids' activities at Marina Park on June 1 from 10 a.m. until approximately 5 p.m.
Katie Nicholls, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, TBnewswatch.com
