Cornerstone’s Walk a Mile returns for 19th year

2,400 women, kids, youth impacted by gender-based violence last year

Cornerstone’s 19^th Walk a Mile fundraiser will make its return on Oct. 3, 2026. /Cornerstone photo

By editor/reporter Sarah Hyatt

A signature fundraiser is returning as Cornerstone continues its mission to help thousands of women, kids and youth impacted by gender-based violence (BGD) every year.

This year marks the 19^th edition of the Cornerstone Family Violence Prevention Centre’s Walk a Mile event – a critical fundraiser the organization depends on to help an increasing number of women, kids and youth who are turning to Cornerstone for help.  

“Walk a Mile is an important fundraiser that helps women, children and youth access shelter, counselling, housing support, violence prevention education, family court support, and other essential programs,” explained long-time Cornerstone executive director Nancy Johnston. “The need for our programs and services continues to grow (and) last year Cornerstone served more than 2,400 individuals across Northumberland County.”

Cornerstone is once again hoping the community will answer the call and flood downtown Cobourg in their red pumps and attire, which is also meant to serve as a show of support for women, kids and youth impacted by gender-based violence.

This year’s event will again take place during the Cobourg Harvest Festival on Oct. 3, and Cornerstone hopes to see parades of red lining the streets for the event.

Organizers have described this year’s gathering as a family-friendly walk-through the downtown area.

And while the big event isn’t until October, registration is now open via cornerstonenorthumberland.ca/walkamile/.

On the big day, in-person registration starts at 9:30 a.m. outside the police station. There will then be a complimentary breakfast thanks to the Cobourg Lions Club and coffee from the Pulse Café and Eatery in Port Hope before participants start their stiletto-inspired treks (although, all types of footwear are always welcome.)

The Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums are also back again to lead participants down King Street.

“Whether you walk on your own or with a team, we invite everyone to join us in raising awareness and showing support for those impacted by gender-based violence,” said Cornerstone. “Bring your family, friends, coworkers and even your pets, for a morning filled with purpose, community and fun.”

Registration is $20 for adults and it’s $10 for youth under age 18. Individuals, teams and even furry friends are welcome to join in the festivities. Funds are also raised as walked are encouraged to collect additional pledges to support Cornerstone’s vital programs and services.

Organizers noted that Walk a Mile wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of sponsors like lead stiletto sponsor Cameco for its continued support and commitment to community.

For those who are unable to join on the big day but are still interested in showing their support, there are online fundraising/donation options through Cornerstone’s website, which the organization also said make a lasting impact.

Cornerstone describes its Walk a Mile fundraiser as its most impactful annual fundraiser to help women, kids and youth safely access shelter, counselling, housing supports, violence prevention education, family court support and other essential programs.

In a Facts, Stats and WAGE’s impact: Gender-based violence study issued by the Government of Canada last September, an analysis detailed that from 2011 to 2021, an average of 102 women and girls were victims of gender-related homicide per year in Canada, totalling 1,125 over this period.