Opinions
Rain or shine, Winnipeg walks for a cause
by Edwin Yazon, ANCOP
The morning of August 15, 2026, began with heavy rain at Assiniboine Park, but the weather could not dampen the spirit of the Answer the Cry of the Poor or ANCOP charity community.
More than 1,400 people registered for the 2026 ANCOP Walk, with an estimated 500 supporters braving the downpour to stand behind the mission but the clouds began to break at about 8:30 a.m.
Held under the theme One Mission, One Walk, the 2026 ANCOP Walk raised more than $180,000, with fundraising continuing after the event.
The ANCOP Walk was honoured by the presence of two local Catholic archbishops. Archbishop Murray Chatlain, Archbishop of Winnipeg, opened the event with a prayer, blessing the walkers, volunteers and the ANCOP mission. Archbishop Albert LeGatt, Archbishop of St. Boniface, delivered an inspirational message, encouraging participants to continue serving those in need and answering the cry of the poor.
A community united to Answer the Cry of the Poor
The 2026 ANCOP Walk was supported by more than 55 sponsors and advertisers and 57 ANCOP Walk teams.
Among the significant contributions was a $50,000 donation from the Province of Manitoba to ANCOP for humanitarian relief efforts. MLA Malaya Marcelino was instrumental in helping make this support possible.
ANCOP also recognized the Manitoba Legislative Assembly resolution recognizing ANCOP’s work, authored by MLA Cindy Lamoureux. The resolution acknowledged ANCOP’s efforts to support vulnerable families and children and its commitment to humanitarian and community development initiatives.
Another significant contribution came from WFG Team Synergy, which donated $20,000 in support of the ANCOP Walk.
In addition to these contributions, sponsors, advertisers, donors and community partners supported the event through financial contributions, advertising, sponsorships and in-kind support.
Honouring two ANCOP champions
The ANCOP Walk 2026 was dedicated in loving memory of Tova Vickar and Bro. Obet Contreras, two steadfast ANCOP champions who stood behind the organization and its mission for many years.
Both Tova and Bro. Obet exemplified what it means to answer the cry of the poor. Through their generosity, compassion and unwavering support, they helped advance ANCOP’s mission of bringing hope and opportunity to children and families in need.
Adding special significance to the tribute to Tova Vickar is the proposed establishment of a $50,000 ANCOP endowment fund in her memory, with ANCOP as the beneficiary. The proposed endowment is intended to create a legacy of generosity and service in her name.
To the more than 1,400 registered walkers, the estimated 500 who came out despite the rain, the more than 55 sponsors and advertisers, 57 teams, volunteers, donors, government representatives, faith leaders, families and community partners, ANCOP extends its heartfelt gratitude.
Those who would like to support ANCOP’s work can still donate at: