RIVERSIDE, Calif.– More than 400 people walked a two-mile route around a Riverside park on a recent drizzly Saturday morning to raise $35,000 in the “Walk to End Homelessness.” Riverside-based Altura Credit Union was a key sponsor of the 4th annual event. Additionally, Altura staffers and their families participated in the walk, and Altura handed out bottled water to walkers.
The city-sponsored walk focuses on creating awareness of homelessness and wellness programs in the city while also generating funds for programs that help people transition from the streets to stable housing. Registration for this year’s event was up over last year, raising expectations that the fundraising goal would be exceeded.
“This family oriented event was uplifting to be a part of,” said Tina Covington, Altura vice president of Business Development. “The people who participated in this walk are committed to making a difference in the lives of people in their community. Altura is proud that we could help.”
City officials report that Riverside spends about $1.1 million on homeless services, which are paid for by the city’s general fund as well as with funds from Riverside County and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The money raised through the walk helps fill gaps in funding in order to provide individuals and families with the things they need to move to stable housing and obtain employment.
At right, Altura Vice President of Business Development Tina Covington was one of the Altura employees to hand out water bottles to walkers at the 4th Annual Riverside Walk to End Homelessness recently.