Cyclists go the Distance for The Salvation Army in Brantford

Long distance cyclists Dale Hall and Leo Carnevale pushed the pedals to raise more than $11,000 for The Salvation Army Brantford Community and Family Services this summer. The fundraiser took the cyclists from Paris, Ontario to Collingwood and back, with the pair riding a distance of 360 kilometres.

This is the fourth year Dale has taken to the saddle to raise funds toward the purchase of a refrigerated van for The Salvation Army, allowing Brantford Community and Family Services to transport fresh and healthy food to anyone in need in Brant County.

“Our team continues to support The Salvation Army because of the amazing reputation they have in the community.  Everyone we speak to about The Salvation Army has an incredible story to share—that speaks volumes,” says biker Dale Hall.

He works for Bellwether Family Wealth, a company that has thrown its support behind The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, collecting toys for children at Christmas, donating backpacks for back-to-school programs and collecting food for The Salvation Army Food Bank.

“Food security has been an ongoing area of need in Brantford and Brant County for many years, and The Salvation Army Food Bank has always done its best to support the community – ensuring food is on the table for as many families as possible,” Dale says.

The current van is heavily used four to five times a week by The Salvation Army in Brantford and needs replacing, says Salvation Army Brantford Community and Family Services Coordinator Will Ratelband.

“Dale is an amazing guy, as he also does two food drives a year at Bellwether Family Wealth. He is hugely committed to helping us fight food insecurity, which is extremely important to the people of this community,” William says. “Dale and his team are very invested in continuing to fundraise for this van and we are determined to look for a replacement in the new year.”

In 2024, Dale says the goal is to raise $50,000 toward the purchase of a new van, with five cyclists expected to participate in the ride. Currently, about $22,500 has been raised for the van’s replacement.

Donations toward the purchase of a new Brantford Community and Family Services van can be made at https://salvationarmy.ca/donations/ by selecting Brantford from the location list.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]