Walk for Africa: Santa Monica Event Raises Money for Medical Aid

The eight mile walk around Santa Monica's streets Saturday aimed to raise funds for missionary treks and medical supplies to Africa.

“The effort put in by people to raise money is immeasurable. We've not only supplied needed medicine, we've built schools and running water systems,” said Lighthouse Church Pastor Ron Scribner. “This effort is important. It gives people a recollection that there are those in need.”

Hundreds of people came to the Santa Monica event to show their support. Each registered adult walker wore specially made Walk For Africa t-shirts and paid a donation of $20 to participate. Proceeds from the walk will go toward medical supplies for ailing Africans in countries like Sierra Leone, Burundi and Liberia.

The eight mile walk signifies the eight thousand mile distance between Santa Monica and Africa.

“This is my first year doing it and I think it's a great way to help those less fortunate which is why I brought my friends,” said Jenny Meyer.

“I do it to serve. I walked last year and this year I am volunteering. I think it’s a good thing that people . . . help those in need,” said Darwin Hernandez, who was handing out water to passing walkers on Broadway Street and Ocean Avenue.

The Lighthouse Church sends teams of doctors, nurses and volunteers to several locations throughout Africa to administer medical treatment and provide aid.

“Last year we netted $40,000 in fund-raising which is enough for one trip,” said Patti Peterson, event coordinator.

At the end of the eight mile walk, Lighthouse church participants played games while enjoying music and beverages. Scribner and church pastor Edward Saffa greeted walkers as they finished the course.

“In West Africa we have only sub-standard medicine which does not do enough to help. The medicine we receive from this church is much better and improves the health of the people of Sierra Leone,” said Saffa.

Poverty, pollution and violence in places like Sierra Leione have not only made attaining proper medical supplies difficult but food, shelter and other forms of aid are in high demand and low supply.

According to Peterson, the churches visited by the missionaries provide many services to people that cannot be found elsewhere in their country.

“When we come in to these places, everyone knows we are there and they walk for miles looking for help and treatment,” said Peterson.