Kagan Kneen, Executive Director of the Lloydminster Social Action Coalition Society, stopped in Vermilion on August 11 en route across Alberta and Saskatchewan as part of his inspiring “Running For Shelter” campaign.
This initiative aims to raise $300,000 for the Lloydminster Men’s Shelter, with the goal of expanding services and purchasing and renovating a building with a total estimated cost of $1.2 million. Covering about 50–60 kilometers daily—that’s more than the 42.195 kilometers comprising a marathon—Kneen tents each night in local campgrounds, foregoing the most basic of creature comforts to better understand for himself—and to show those who follow along on social media—the physical and mental strain of living rough.
Kneen’s mother, Sandra, is accompanying him for the trip, towing a trailer behind an SUV. At first, she followed directly behind her son as he ran, garnering supportive attention for the cause from other drivers. However, after multiple flat tires in under 10 days—resulting from driving on the shoulder of the road—the two decided on a different approach, with Sandra cruising ahead to important intersections to ensure Kneen’s safety as well as to provide hydration and nourishment when needed.
Kneen’s effort not only highlights the physical and emotional toll of homelessness but also serves as a call to action for the local area to support the shelter’s crucial work, which serves the 200-kilometer radius surrounding the Border City. Despite the grueling schedule, Kneen continues to manage his duties as Executive Director, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to this cause.
Visit https://www.lloydminstershelter.com/ to make donations to support this life-saving initiative. Learn more about Kneen’s experiences on the road by searching @runningforshelteryll on Instagram or TikTok.
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