The Meota 5 km Walk/Run raised over $6,000 for the Battlefords CMHA this past weekend (Submitted Photo/Charles Baillargeon)

By Austin Mattes

Mental Health Awareness

Community unites for Meota 5 km Walk/Run to raise funds for CMHA

May 14, 2025 | 4:14 PM

More than 100 runners and walkers laced up their shoes on Saturday, May 10 for the Second Annual Meota 5 km Walk/Run. The events saw participants of all ages gathered under sunny skies for the 5 km course all with the purpose of supporting and raising awareness for mental health.

Event organizer, Charles Baillargeon shared that the inspiration for the fundraiser began with a simple conversation and a desire to make a difference.

“A few years ago, a friend of mine, who is also a runner, and I were talking about raising funds for mental health and he says ‘why don’t we have a five kilometre walk/run for people and have all the proceeds go to mental health?’ It kind of simmered there for a year or two and then last year we decided, OK let’s give it go,” Baillargeon said.

Since then, the event has proven to be a huge success. So much so, it has not only drawn local residents but has also attracted participants from the wider region, including Alberta, the Battlefords, and beyond.

“It was a good feeling for us to know that people wanted to participate, but not only participate, they wanted to do their share for mental health and help take away the stigma,” Baillargeon said.

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While the primary focus was raising awareness, the event also served as a fun community celebration. Participants dressed up as customers and some even used a horse and carriage to complete the event. Encouraging signs and music were also along the route to keep participants energized, and the day wrapped up with lunch and socializing.

Participant using an alternative method for the 5km route (Submitted Photo/Charles Baillargeon).

Baillargeon extended a special thanks to the Meota Catholic Church for their support.

“It was a bit of an outreach program for the church too. The ladies made cookies and served lunch afterward. It was a great way to bring people together,” Baillargeon said.

In total, the event raised over $6,000 through registrations and donations from residents and local businesses. All proceeds will go to the Battlefords branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), helping to fund vital mental health programs and services in the area.

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Austin.mattes@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @AustinMattes