Programs supporting mental health and addiction have gotten a boost from a Windsor-Essex fundraising tradition.
The Bob Probert Ride, which typically invites motorcycle enthusiasts on a circle tour of Windsor-Essex to raise money, was virtual for the second year in a row due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Organizers pressed on with a virtual fundraising campaign that raised $60,000 for the Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Foundation. This year, the focus is on addiction and mental health programs at the hospital.
The money was raised through a raffle, and the grand prize was a 2021 Harley Davidson Road Glide motorcycle. The winner was Roxanne Stone, whose ticket was pulled at the Unifor Local 444 offices on Labour Day.
"The support of Unifor has been unwavering since the beginning of our Ride in 2010, and it wouldn’t be the success it is today without the endless support of their leadership and membership," said Dani Probert, Bob's widow.
Local 444 President Dave Cassidy said he's pleased to see the generosity of the community come through, despite a tough year for many people.
"We’re proud to be connected with an organization that is not only raising funds for mental health and addictions but also raising awareness about mental wellness in our community," said Cassidy.
HDGH has been at the forefront of mental health treatment in the region. The hospital operates a daily wellness clinic in downtown Windsor, which also houses an outpatient injection program for those battling addictions. The hospital also operates a mental health crisis clinic at the downtown location, as well as an in-patient mental health allied team at its west Windsor campus.
The ride is named after the late hockey enforcer, who grew up in Windsor and played for the Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks. Probert died of a heart attack in 2010 at age 45.
The tenth anniversary edition of the Bob Probert Ride, which organizers hope will take place back on the roads, is scheduled for June 26, 2022.
