Meadow Lake girl swims 2.5 kilometres to raise money for shelter animals

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Her parents suggested pairing the challenge with something important to her. Sloane, who has a dog of her own, chose the Meadow Lake & District Humane Society.

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“I just really wanted to raise money for all the dogs [and cats] so they can get a great home,” she said. 

Sloane Reid, 11, is pictured aboard a boat after completing her Aug. 3 swim across Greig Lake. The challenge raised $300 for the Meadow Lake & District Humane Society. (Image Credit: Layne Reid)

When Aug. 3 brought calm conditions, the family decided it was time. Sloane’s mother, Jackie Reid, swam beside her while Layne followed in a boat.

Some friends and family also took to the water, forming a floating cheering section as Sloane and Jackie made their way across. Most of the donations came from those closest to the family.

“I was very happy that they were supporting me and they helped to raise money for the shelter,” Sloane said.

Delivering the money marked Sloane’s first visit to the Meadow Lake Humane Society, but she was not new to helping shelter animals. Jackie said Sloane previously visited a shelter while the family was on holiday in Mexico, where she walked dogs and brought them treats.

“It’s a really good feeling seeing her excel at swimming and raising money for a cause that she’s really passionate about,’ Layne said.

“We were very proud of her, very proud that she set a goal and achieved it,” Jackie said.

The humane society said in a Facebook post it was “absolutely blown away” by Sloane’s effort. The organization said the donation will help pay for food, veterinary care, medications and supplies for animals in its care.

Sloane is already thinking about an encore. She said she would like to return to Greig Lake next year and challenge herself with a longer swim.

Her family has also discussed inviting some of her Manta Ray teammates to join her, potentially bringing more swimmers – and more donations – to the lake.

“So we’re hoping this is maybe just the tip of the iceberg,” Layne said.

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Kenneth.cheung@pattisonmedia.com