Why we’re running from Stony Mountain Institution

On August 13, 2022, a group of Winnipeggers will run the distance from Stony Mountain to downtown Winnipeg. Some of us will run the entire 21k (13.1 miles), while others will run 5 or 10k, relay-style.

We are running to bring attention to the isolation people face when they are incarcerated. Because Stony and so many other prisons are in the middle of nowhere – miles from the nearest bus stop and way out of budget for a taxi – people in prison risk of losing their most important connections. When people can’t see their family members, best friends, and community supports, it harms our communities and it certainly doesn't make us "safer."

We believe people benefit from connection, not isolation. So we are running in support of a two wonderful organizations that help people who are exiting the prison system.

Donate to Strength in the Circle!

Strength in the Circle is a group of Indigenous men supporting each other as they heal from personal and systemic trauma and build a healthier culture of masculinity. They welcome members who have been incarcerated and who have experienced violence, homelessness, addictions, and struggles with mental health.

Following the Indigenous medicine wheel, they focus on activities that heal the mind, body, spirit, and emotional wellbeing of members. Though a combination of fitness, friendship, and traditional cultural practices and ceremony, they are creating a space where they can all feel part of a community.

Like many groups, Strength in the Circle has been on hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic and the organization is in the process of being built up again. Your donation will help with that!

You can learn more about Strength in the Circle here, here, and here, and follow their Facebook page here.

Sign up to be a driver for Bar None Prison Rideshare!

The Bar None Prison Rideshare is a completely volunteer-run project that offers free transportation to people looking to visit their family and friends in jail or prison. Bar None's goal is to help reduce the harm that imprisonment does to individuals and communities. You can read more about their work on their website, through their newsletter, or in the news.

The rideshare has been mostly on pause during the pandemic, but organizers are hoping to get rides happening again this fall, and more drivers are always needed! Drivers are reimbursed for their mileage and sign up only for those rides they are available for and willing to give. Drivers and passengers are asked to wear masks while in the car together, and Bar None can provide masks.

You can learn more about becoming a volunteer driver by reading the Bar None Prison Rideshare Handbook and can sign up or ask questions by contacting barnone.wpg@gmail.com.