13 year-old journeys from Barrie to Ottawa to raise awareness and funds for youth mental health

Zach Hofer, from Barrie, Ont., is running and cycling to Ottawa to raise awareness and funds for youth mental health.

On Monday, Zach completed 21 km. He said the most he has done in one day is 25.15 km.

“I witness mental health through my family and some kids in my school so I thought it would be a good idea to raise awareness for it,” said Zach Hofer.

READ MORE: Making strides for mental health

Zach’s step dad, Derek Clark, is on the road alongside Zach. He said although Monday along Highway 7 was hot and humid, he finds motivation from his son.

“The hardest part is not only keeping myself going on a daily basis to keep up with Zach, but to keep Zach’s spirits up, keep him going, and keep him mentally aware that he’s done this for a reason and we just have to dig deep and pull through,” said Clark.

The journey started in Barrie on Aug.13 and wraps up in Ottawa on Sept. 10. All proceeds raised go to Royal Victoria Health Youth Mental Health Program in Barrie.

READ MORE: Feeling bad about feeling down is good for your mental health: study

“This is day nine. It’s been quite the week: six days of moving, two days of rest and this is our first day of the second week,” said Zach’s mother, Shelly Hofer.

Zach’s family says the journey has been emotional but the communities have been amazing in giving back. Shelly Hofer said her son is inspiring others to talk about mental health with their kids.

Follow his journey at zachmakestracks.ca.