More than 400 participants gathered along the Mud Creek Trail on Sunday for the 2026 Hike for Hospice Chatham-Kent, marking the 10th anniversary of both the event and the local hospice.
Organizers say 402 registered participants took part in the hike, helping raise $200,000 through pledges, corporate team participation and event sponsorships.
Among the top contributors was AWC Manufacturing, named this year’s Corporate Challenge winner. The team մասնակցated in memory of co-worker Corey St. Peter, who had been a resident at Chatham-Kent Hospice.
The event received support from returning title sponsor Battery Boy and pre-hike family fun sponsor Kent and Essex Mutual and Fairway Wealth Management, along with additional sponsorship from TekSavvy and MicroAge/MC Business Solutions.
A new addition to this year’s hike included memorial trees planted along the trail as a tribute to loved ones.
With this year’s total, organizers say the event has raised more than $1.31 million over the past decade. Funds support hospice services in the community, including residential care, care coordination, and grief and bereavement programs provided at no cost to families.
“This year’s Hike for Hospice was especially meaningful as we celebrated 10 years of caring for our community,” said Brock McGregor, executive director of the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation.
“The incredible support we continue to receive ensures that individuals and families facing end-of-life journeys have access to compassionate care, comfort, and dignity when they need it most. We are deeply grateful to everyone who participated, donated, and helped make this event such a success.”
