A Remarkable Community Achievement

In June 2025, our community came together in an extraordinary way—walking, cheering, donating, and raising over $68,000 for Food for Focus.

What We Did Together

The Westville 100 began before sunrise, with Rev. Dr. Mary Taylor setting out at 4:00 a.m. to walk 100 kilometres in a single day in support of Food for Focus. She was joined at the very start by five others, walking alongside her in the early morning hours. From the first loop, it was clear this would not be a journey taken alone.

By 7:00 a.m., members of the Nova Scotia Highlanders Reservists joined for part of that first loop. As the morning unfolded, more walkers came and went, some for a few kilometres, some for longer stretches, all offering companionship, encouragement, and presence as Rev. Mary continued the full distance.

At noon, the walk became something more.

Led by the Police Chief, with fire trucks escorting the route, a parade-style walk moved through town. The Mayor joined in, along with community members, Pictou County PRIDE, and so many others. Municipal departments including police, fire, library, and town staff stepped up in visible and meaningful ways, both in the lead-up to the day and throughout the day.

As the afternoon wore on, the walking became harder. A longer-than-expected break and heat exhaustion made the next loop the most difficult of the day. That was when the community responded again.

The youth group made sure Rev. Mary was never alone. Walkers stayed close. Encouragement never stopped. One of the families supported by Food for Focus came out with a card, flowers, hugs, and words of gratitude. They wanted the community to know that Food for Focus matters, that food insecurity carries no shame, and that it can happen to anyone.

Together, the group walked into the night, as Rev. Mary continued toward the 100-kilometre goal.

Shortly after midnight, the full 100 kilometres were completed.

The next day brought another surprise. Donations continued to come in, and the final total was more than double the original goal. Because of this generosity, Food for Focus can now guarantee two full years of support for the families it serves.

Westville 100 was never just about distance or dollars raised. It was about showing up. Walking together. Removing stigma. And proving what is possible when a community decides to care for one another in real and practical ways.

This is what we did together, and it is only the beginning.

Step into the Westville 100 Walk

On June 21st, 2025, Rev. Dr. Mary Taylor will walk 100km to raise awareness and funds for the Food for Focus Program.

Our goal is to raise $30,000 to support Food for Focus, providing critical weekend meals to food-insecure families in Westville, Nova Scotia.

Together, we can make a lasting difference in our community— sign up or donate today!