Founded in 2011 by the late Rev. Sheilagh Ashworth, the Schomberg Country Run is an annual community event that has raised tens of thousands of dollars to promote Reconciliation through the support of Indigenous clean water initiatives.  In the early years, the Country Run, combined with others, helped Pikangikum on the path to sustainable, clean drinking water.

The job of ensuring a dependable supply of clean water to Indigenous communities is far from over.

In recent years, the Run has supported Water First’s contributions towards sustainable water supply.  Through education programs, Indigenous candidates achieve full certification to operate, maintain and repair Indigenous community water systems, many of which are in Ontario. Water First works closely with Indigenous Board members and the Indigenous communities it serves, although it does not self-identify as an Indigenous organization.

In her article Walking For Water author Angela Long writes: “As he drives past the river that was once “the lifeline” of his village, Isaac Murdoch thinks the equation for Canada’s reconciliation with First Nations is simple. “Clean water means good reconciliation,” he says. “Water not so good, means reconciliation not so good.”

Since 2011,Schomberg Country Run has been the only public event in King Township to raise funds, responding to Call to Action #18 in the Truth and Reconciliation Report.  Proceeds from the SCR have reached over $25,000 in a single year.  With your help we can do that again.  Expenses are minimized through the generosity of individuals and companies donating goods and services.

Those wishing to participate can Register as Runners/Walkers, Sponsor Runners, and/or make Donations, in the manner detailed on the forms below.  On the day of the Run, participants are encouraged to join us at 9:00 am for the Opening Ceremony and then head out on the 5km course from 116 Church St., Schomberg to Lloydtown and back, anytime before 11:00 am.  (If more convenient, you can Register, get Sponsors, do your own run/walk at another time, and perhaps come join us all and make your contribution to this wonderful cause on Run day.  Of course, all are welcome to simply support the Run by making Donations to Water First (see detailed forms please).