Red Shoe Walk for FASD Awareness Day

On September 9, Harrison Hope and Exhale Mental Health hosted their first annual Red Shoe Rock Walk at Stouffville Memorial Park. This event brought the community together to spread awareness and support for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

Harrison Hope founders Mary Byrnes and Caroline Johnson ensure that the not-for-profit organization educates, supports and spreads awareness to all individuals affected by FASD directly or indirectly.

Johnson is also the founder of Exhale Mental Health. This private Mental Health therapy practice is connected to Harrison Hope, with one of the aspects of expertise being FASD.

The event included a food and clothing drive for 360Kids, a non-profit organization that supports at-risk youth.

An overcast and rainy day left as soon as the walk began, as the sun made Memorial Park its spotlight. With uplifted spirits, the walk began with two flag holders leading dozens of walkers around Memorial Park.

Imraz Ramani Reality donated $200 to 360Kids while providing fun activities for the walkers. Trentadue Torres Group Reality accepted donations for 360Kids at the event. Donations can still be dropped off at 155 Mostar Street, Units 1-2, until the end of October.

“I’m delighted to say what began as an idea to have a handful of us walk Memorial Park on FASD Day turned into a bigger event with collaborators and the community coming together as the vision for today was achieved,” says Byrnes. This event was a success in educating about FASD and having donations for the 360Kids.

Visit harrisonshope.ca for more information.

*Story and photo submitted by Christina Manserra.