Bridge Builders to Host Meatless Day Walkathon Saturday in Support of Animal Defenders

GREAT BAY--Bridge Builders will host its annual Meatless Day Walkathon on Saturday, November 7, with proceeds going toward supporting Animal Defenders and its ongoing efforts to care for stray and abandoned animals on St. Maarten. The fundraising event, which begins at 6:00 a.m. at the Belair Community Centre, aims to raise awareness about animal welfare while encouraging residents to participate in a community activity that promotes compassion and healthy living.

The walkathon is being organized ahead of Meatless Day, internationally observed on November 25, which encourages individuals to reconsider their consumption of meat and reflect on the treatment of animals raised or killed for human use. The campaign promotes the belief that greater respect for animal life can contribute to a more compassionate and peaceful society. Through its annual walkathon, Bridge Builders seeks to bring that message closer to home while providing financial assistance to an organization working directly with animals in need.

Animal Defenders has been selected as the beneficiary of the fundraiser for several years, reflecting Bridge Builders' continued support for the organization's work. Animal rescue groups on St. Maarten face ongoing challenges in caring for abandoned pets and stray animals, particularly the costs associated with providing food, medical treatment and other essential care. Funds raised through the walkathon will help Animal Defenders continue meeting these needs and providing assistance to animals that would otherwise be left without adequate support.

Over the years, Bridge Builders has organized several fundraising activities in support of animal welfare and other community causes. The organization has also collaborated with local partners to host VeganFest, an initiative introducing residents to plant-based foods and encouraging greater awareness of vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. Guided by its motto, "Hope, Help, Heal," the group continues to support nonprofit organizations and community initiatives that address social needs and promote positive change.

Saturday's walk will begin and end at the Belair Community Centre, with participants following a route through several areas of Philipsburg and its surroundings. Walkers will travel along Link 1 toward Walter Plantz, continue onto the Boardwalk, and proceed through Emmaplein and Pondfill before crossing Prins Bernard Bridge. The route will then take participants along Bush Road and back to the starting point at Belair Community Centre.

Organizers estimate that participants walking at a faster pace will complete the route in approximately one hour, while others may take up to an hour and a half. Those who prefer to run the route are expected to finish in approximately 30 to 45 minutes. The event is open to individuals of different fitness levels, with the emphasis placed on participation and supporting the fundraising cause rather than competition.

Registration will begin at 5:45 a.m., with the walk scheduled to start promptly at 6:00 a.m. The event is expected to conclude by 7:30 a.m. Participation costs US$10 per person, and residents may register in advance through the online registration form or sign up at the starting location on the morning of the event.

In addition to participating in the walkathon, Bridge Builders is encouraging residents to observe Meatless Day on November 25 by pledging to avoid eating meat for one day. The organization hopes the initiative will encourage reflection on animal welfare and introduce more people to the possibilities of plant-based eating.

Bridge Builders is inviting individuals, families, community groups and businesses to support Saturday's fundraiser, emphasizing that every contribution will assist Animal Defenders in its work caring for vulnerable animals. Through the annual event, the organization hopes to strengthen community involvement in animal welfare while continuing to promote its message of hope, help and healing.

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