One-year after devastating fire, YMCA announces return of “The Long Walk Home” to Support YMCA Men’s Residence
24-07-2025
One year after a fire forced the closure of the third floor at the YMCA Men’s Residence, the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford is proud to mark this milestone with hope, resilience, and renewed purpose.
Today, the YMCA announces the return of The Long Walk Home, a powerful two-day, 72-kilometre fundraising walk in support of the YMCA Men’s Residence and its life-changing programs.
On September 5 and 6, 2025, ten committed walkers will take on the physical and emotional challenge of walking 72 km to raise $50,000 for vulnerable men in our community. The event is part of the YMCA’s Y Saves Lives Campaign, a bold effort to double the number of lives served through transformational programs and partnerships.
This announcement comes as the YMCA officially welcomed residents back to the third floor of the Men’s Residence on July 2. The reopening also marks the launch of a new Transitional Living Program for 43 men, developed in collaboration with St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, Shelter Health Network, and Mission Services.
“This past year has tested the strength of our residents and our team,” said Genevieve Hlydash, a returning walker, and Vice President of the Men’s Residence & Health, Fitness, Aquatics and Residence at the YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford. “The Long Walk Home is not only a fundraiser—it’s a symbol of the long, often unseen journey that many of our residents walk every day. As we reopen the third floor, and launch this new program we’re building a stronger path forward—one filled with wraparound supports, dignity, and community.”
And while this is an incredible milestone, there are 131 men on the second, fourth, and fifth floors that the YMCA doesn’t receive funding for whose needs are also critical.
How to get involved:
Donate to support a walker or the campaign
Become an event sponsor and activate your business’s community impact
A limited number of walker spots remain for those inspired to take on the 72 km challenge and raise $2,500. Reach out to Stephanie for more information.
“Every step in The Long Walk Home is a step toward safety, stability, and a better future for men in our community,” said Joshua Austin, returning walker, and Director of Philanthropy at YMCA Hamilton | Burlington | Brantford. “It’s about walking beside those who often walk alone—and showing them, they’re not forgotten."
