Ontario Construction News staff writer
Steps for Life – Walking for Families of Workplace Tragedy has been the flagship fundraiser for Threads of Life for almost 20 years.
Each spring, individuals sport yellow t-shirts to walk and raise awareness and funds to provide support to families affected by a workplace tragedy.
Money raised through the event funds programs and services for families affected by a workplace tragedy, including peer support resources, volunteer and learning opportunities, and an entire community of families who support those dealing with workplace tragedies.
“We walk together so that no one has to walk alone. Side by side; stride by stride.”
Steps for Life 2024 continues through Safety and Health Week, with community walks being held May 11 in Sudbury, Timmins and Medicine Hat, partner events still happening, virtual walks scheduled all month, and anyone can donate to any walker right through to May 31.
However, the first rounds of Steps for Life-Walking for Families of Workplace Tragedy events were “spectacular”, organizers said in a statement.
“It’s inspiring to see so many people united in their dedication to workplace health and safety, and to helping the individuals and families affected by fatalities, life-altering injuries and occupational disease.
“To our fantastic volunteers, walkers, sponsors, partners and donors, we can never say it often enough or loud enough – thank you.
Threads of Life has more than 350 volunteers, contributing in several ways, from peer support for family members to flipping burgers at Steps for Life.
Every year in Canada, about 1000 workers are killed on the job or die as a result of a work-related injury or illness.