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Raise money for Ukrainian defenders while running this October

Participants get a symbolic medal crafted by two Ukrainian designers

run for ukraine map logo

Runners can sign up for first “#RunWithUkraine–Give Boots to Defenders event now, or any time this October, and know that the entirety of their race fees are going toward a good cause.

The race, hosted by the non-profit organization Second Front Ukraine, is meant to raise money for Ukrainian defenders. Each registration fee of $60 sponsors one pair of military boots for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 100 per cent of the proceeds from registrations will be directed towards these winter military boots manufactured in Ukraine and designed to stand up to the freezing temperatures much of Ukraine experiences throughout the fall and winter months.

run for ukraine boots
Boots sent to Ukrainian defenders. Photo: #runforuk.ca

Registrants have the option to help Ukrainian defenders further by adding additional boots or warm socks to their shopping cart.

Runners can choose how they want to log their run, and as the website explains, the “#RunForUkraine–Give Boots to Defenders campaign invites anyone in Canada or anywhere in the world to participate. Runners can choose their preferred location, time and distance.”

The race website suggests 5K, 10K, 21K, or 42K, but adds that racers are welcome to run any other distance. The campaign hopes to bring awareness through the virtual race when runners share their achievements on social media pages, tagging @secondfrontua and #RunForUkraine.

run for ukraine medals
Photo: #runforuk.ca

A unique race medal will be mailed to all entrants in November. The medal is the result of two Ukrainian designers, Anton Masalov and Mariia Meshta. Masalov hoped to reflect the historical union of Canada and Ukraine by merging of the Canadian maple leaf and Ukrainian trident. The blue and yellow dots were added by Meshta, who used them to represent fleeing Ukrainians who were forced out of their homes, and cities that were destroyed.

Second Front Ukraine Foundation is a registered non-profit based in Toronto. As of September 2022, the organization had raised over $550k CAD and delivered over 10 tonnes of medical and military supplies to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

You can find out more about this event or sign up here.

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