Gregory Ould is not a man to stand by and watch someone suffer.
The former Tri-Cities resident who now calls Mission home prefers to take action.
While walking out of a movie theatre in downtown Vancouver on a chilly October night back in 2005, Ould noticed a man lying in an alcove at the side of a building and asked him if there was anything he could do to help.
Ould was taken aback by what the man said: "I could use a blanket to survive the night," the elderly homeless man said.
Shortly after, Ould started Blanket BC, a non-profit society that raises funds and collects blankets, food, and warm clothes for homeless people.
On Saturday, Sept. 22, Blanket BC is holding a Hike for the Homeless at Minnekhada Regional Park in Coquitlam between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The suggested donation is $20 and food, blankets and warm clothing will also be collected. Children can hike for free.
"We are trying to help the Share (Share Family and Community Services) foodbank and the Hope for Freedom Society," Ould explained.
He'll be there, too, along with his children, Ben and Emma, even though he has to work tonight on the Canada Line, where he is an attendant.
THE DETAILS
5 km and 10 km hike available
meet at the Quarry Road entrance
City of Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam officials will be on hand to kick off the event, along with Share director Marilyn Craig.
Register here
