SINT MAARTEN, — Bridge Builders is inviting residents to its annual Meatless Day Walkathon on Saturday, November 7, with all proceeds going to Animal Defenders and its work caring for stray animals on the island.
The walkathon is being held ahead of Meatless Day, observed internationally on November 25. The campaign encourages people to consider a vegetarian diet and reflect on the treatment of animals raised or killed for human use. Its underlying belief is that respect for animal life can help build a more peaceful world.
For the local Bridge Builders chapter, the event also responds to a continuing need in Sint Maarten. Animal rescue groups regularly take in abandoned animals and care for strays, but the cost of food and veterinary treatment places a heavy burden on their resources. As in previous years, Bridge Builders has chosen Animal Defenders as the beneficiary of the walkathon.
The group has held the fundraiser over several years, raising money to help provide meals and medical attention for animals in need. It has also helped organize VeganFest with community partners to introduce residents to plant-based eating. Bridge Builders continues to support local nonprofit efforts wherever it sees an opportunity to help.
Guided by its motto, “Hope, Help, Heal,” the group hopes this year’s walk will encourage more people to become involved in the care of animals on the island.
The walk begins at Belair Community Centre at 6:00 AM. Participants will head along Link 1 to Walter Plantz and continue onto the Boardwalk. The route then passes through Emmaplein and Pondfill before crossing Prins Bernard Bridge. From there, participants will follow Bush Road back to Belair Community Centre.
Fast walkers should complete the route in approximately one hour, while others may need up to an hour and a half. Participants who wish to run are expected to finish in 30 to 45 minutes.
Registration opens at 5:45 AM, and the event is scheduled to end by 7:30 AM. The participation fee is US$10. Register in advance using the QR code below or https://forms.gle/
Bridge Builders is also inviting the community to observe Meatless Day on November 25 by pledging to avoid meat for the day. Further information on the international campaign is available at www.sak.org.
REGISTER FOR THE WALK
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
Registration: 5:45 AM
Walk begins: 6:00 AM
Start/Finish: Belair Community Centre
Registration Fee: US$10
Registration Link: https://forms.gle/
Contact: bridgebuilderssxm@gmail.com
Instagram: @bridgebuilders.sxm
