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Hamilton Spectator

Belle River Stop Part of Veteran's 800-KM Walk to Raise Awareness for Homeless Heroes

Ken MacKay, a retired military man from Port Dover, is walking more than 800 kilometres from Windsor to Ottawa to raise awareness and funds for homeless veterans across Canada—and his trek included a meaningful stop in Belle River. MacKay's journey, called 'Trek4Vets,' is in support of Homes for Heroes, a nonprofit that builds tiny home villages and provides support services for veterans in need. 'This is a partnership with an organization named Homes for Heroes,' explained MacKay. 'They build villages with tiny homes and offer wraparound support for military veterans. I'm raising funds and awareness for our homeless veterans.' Estimates suggest that between 2,500 and 10,000 Canadian veterans are currently homeless—a number MacKay believes could be higher. 'Veterans are proud. Many won't ask for help. A lot of them are couch-surfing, living in vehicles or worse,' he said. 'If I don't speak up, who will?' At 65 years old, MacKay is no stranger to long-distance treks—he's completed two pilgrimages in Europe—but this journey will be his longest yet. The walk is expected to take 42 days, with MacKay traveling six days a week and taking one day for rest and laundry. While passing through Belle River, MacKay was hosted by local Legion president Richard Brooks. Support from Legions along the route has been crucial. 'There's a Legion every 25 kilometres or so. That's made it all possible,' said MacKay. MacKay's military career began at 18 with the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry. He later served nine years as a reservist with the 48th Highlanders and now acts as Sergeant-at-Arms for his local Legion in Port Dover, where a community BBQ helped raise $10,000 before his departure. So far, MacKay has raised nearly $40,000 and has received donations—and hospitality—from people all across the province. 'Last week I stopped at a cheese factory outside of Kitchener,' he laughed. 'The people were so kind. They gave me some of their products, though I could only carry a small amount in my pack.' Despite unpredictable weather and physical toll, MacKay remains optimistic and committed. 'I like walking solo,' he said. 'It's meditative. It gives me time to reflect and focus on what this journey is really about.' Homes for Heroes currently operates in Calgary, Edmonton, and Kingston, with plans to expand to Winnipeg and London, Ont. Anyone wishing to support MacKay's cause can donate at: