The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Lloydminster announces that proceeds from this years Run for Lloyd will go towards a Lloydminster mental health initiative.
On Wednesday, a launch ceremony for the second annual “Run for Lloyd” was held at the  Baitul Amaan Mosque where it was stated that funds raised will go to the Lloydminster Regional Health Foundation’s Project Sunrise.
“Mental health seems to affect everybody. Virtually, everybody we’eve talked to either has had some personal experiences or has had friends or family who has had issues with mental health,” says Chairman of the LRHF Darrell Howell during the ceremony.
Project Sunrise is the Foundations main fundraising program for mental health and addiction in Lloydminster.
According to Howell, The initiative has progressed in many different facets including receiving funding to bring more staff to help with mental health-related issues in downtown Lloydminster. The program also has helped fund  School Resource Officers between the two Lloydminster school division to help kids in need. With there being many mental health services in the area, the initiative looks to create a roadmap to assist those seeking help while also creating a wing at the Slime Thorpe Centre to help those suffering from short-term issues.
“It’s not as easy as saying ‘we’re going to buy a microscope or a CT unit or something’ it’s a harder problem to get your arms around but its also a much more pervasive problem.”
Last year, the inaugural run raised over $12,000 for a new ophthalmology microscope needed at the Lloydminster Hospital. The $160,000 microscope will help prevent residents in need of cataract surgery from travelling in order to get the procedure done.
The launch began with a prayer, which Imam Mansoor Azeem believes will bless the community for their humble efforts if the verses of God is included. Azeem says the Muslim faith instructs its followers to do many things includes being a positive member of society.
“Moving forward, this is the reason, by the enjoinment, by the commandment of God Almighty that we’re also contributing, we’re also organizing this event.”
Run for Lloyd will take place on June 27 from 7 pm to 9 pm.
“You can walk, you can jog, you can do whatever you want. Just reach the finish line in a healthy manner to provide healthcare for your wider community as well.”
