2nd annual event raising funds for New Brunswick Military Family Resource Centre
On Sept. 10, the Ride 4 Suicide Awareness is returning to Woodstock.
The date of the 2nd annual ride coincides with World Suicide Prevention Day. According to organizer Maria Pozsgai, the event fundraises for local mental health supports while raising awareness and starting conversations around well-being.
“We want to support making our little piece of the world a better place,” Pozsgai wrote in a letter sent to local businesses.
The ride starts and finishes at J&T Powersports. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with kickstands up at 11 a.m., and the registration fee is $20 per bike.
Pozsgai decided to create the Ride 4 Suicide Awareness after losing her nephew Jon to suicide in 2020. She wrote in her letter that every 40 seconds, someone in the world loses their battle to suicide.
“It kind of killed me,” she said of her loss.
Because Pozsgai’s nephew loved to ride motorbikes, she organized an annual motorbike ride in his memory.
“I didn’t know what else to do but raise some money and try to help some other people and raise awareness,” she said.
This year’s proceeds are going to the New Brunswick Military Family Resource Centre. Pozsgai said she chose that organization because the military was close to her nephew’s heart.
“Last year, we had some members from the [Canadian Army Veterans] help us out with our ride by blocking traffic,” she added. “I appreciate people helping.”
According to Pozsgai, last year’s inaugural event had over 150 attendees and raised $6100 for The Chalmers Foundation. She hopes this year’s event will draw an even bigger crowd and raise more money.
“We’re hoping to … just get the awareness out and let people know that there’s help available and they’re loved,” she said.
Pozsgai emphasized the importance of always being kind to others.
“You never know what someone’s going through,” she stated.
