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The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF) is again gearing up for Ride for Refuge in support of the efforts of its partner organization EHALE in Mozambique to install 50 more solar suitcases in rural health clinics as part  of the “A Light for Every Birth” project.  

In 2016, thirty solar suitcases were installed in an initial undertaking and have proved most beneficial with their versatility and the major role they play saving and enhancing the lives of mothers and their infants both during childbirth and pre and post natal care. Since more births occur at night, having access to sufficient light before, during and following the delivery may greatly reduce the dangers to new mums and their babies. Low maintenance needs and costs are further ongoing benefits of solar suitcases. PWRDF’s goal for Ride for Refuge is to raise $40,000 towards the total cost of $300,000 for the suitcases. Unlike 2016, there is no Federal Government matching funding available to help cover costs. The cost to PWRDF for each suitcase is $5800 which includes transportation and installation. Members of our diocese have been generous in their support of Ride for Refuge in past years donating to the two teams representing the diocese, Team PWRDF Vancouver and the Divine Dashers of St. John the Divine, Maple Ridge joined by members of St. Laurence, Coquitlam.  

SOLAR SUITCASE

Our diocesan PWRDF Unit goal for 2021 is to have more parishes become involved in fundraising activities and to increase the overall giving to Ride for Refuge. Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ride for Refuge has not organized any official rides. Participants may plan their own freestyle activities or join with other teams. The Ride for Refuge website provides a variety of ideas for fundraising activities besides riding and walking. While October 2 is designated as the official event date, fundraising may occur anytime until the end of October with all funds needing to be sent to Ride for Refuge by October 31.

Team PWRDF Vancouver is again participating in Ride for Refuge and welcoming new team members to sign up on the Ride for Refuge website. Members of the team will be riding and walking various lengths. The objective of Team PWRDF Vancouver is to raise sufficient funds for the purchase of two or more solar suitcases. 

For more information regarding becoming involved as a parish or as an individual please contact Peter Goodwin , Captain Team PWRDF Vancouver by email or by phone at 604-929-6143.