Hope Air’s Haul for Hope YYC event raises $140,000

Hope Air’s third annual Haul for Hope event in Calgary – presented by WestJet — raised a record-breaking $140,000 to help Canadians who must travel long distances to access vital medical care.

Held last week, this years’ event was especially meaningful as it marked milestone anniversaries for both organizations: Hope Air’s 40th year of connecting patients to care and WestJet’s 30th anniversary of serving Canadians.

Diederik Pen, President, WestJet Airlines & Chief Operating Officer, WestJet Group, said: “We are incredibly proud of the overwhelming support shown at this year’s Haul for Hope. Today was a powerful reminder that when communities come together with a common purpose, they can create meaningful change.”

Pen continued: “Every team that took on the challenge of pulling an aircraft, every volunteer who donated their time, and every dollar raised will help ensure patients and caregivers can access the medical care they need, regardless of where they live.”

This year, 20 teams took on the challenge of pulling a 67,000-pound WestJet aircraft 100 metres across the tarmac at Signature Aviation YYC in support of Hope Air’s mission. While the event ignited a bit of friendly competition, its true purpose was to raise awareness and critical funds that help patients and their caregivers overcome geographic barriers to healthcare.

Mark Rubinstein, Chief Hope Officer, Hope Air, said that: “Standing on the tarmac and seeing this many people show up for Hope Air patients was incredibly moving. WestJet and YYC didn’t simply help us put on an event — they brought a community together around patients who may be facing some of the most difficult days of their lives.”

Rubinstein continued: “Every person who pulled that aircraft, donated or volunteered today helped give someone the ability to get on a flight, reach an appointment to receive the vital medical care they’ve travelled so far for. That is what I’ll remember about today: Calgary showed our patients that they don’t have to make that journey alone.”

Megan Gupton, Chief Information Officer, Calgary Airports, said that: “Hosting Haul for Hope at YYC for the past three years reminds us of what a remarkable community we’re part of. Each year, we’re inspired by the volunteers, sponsors, supporters and partners who rally behind Hope Air’s mission. It’s a privilege to welcome that energy to YYC and see the impact it creates for patients and families across Canada.”