Instead of spending money this past Boxing Day, Junel Malapad spent his day collecting it.

The Winnipegger, who’s completed a wintery post-holiday run for the past three years in support of Siloam Mission, set a goal this year to raise $5000 for the local non-profit over the course of a 150-mile run.

Setting out on Boxing Day, Malapad’s course consisted of a 3.3-kilometer loop around The Forks and St. Boniface. Despite the cold conditions, the runner persisted in completing his goal and finished his run late Friday afternoon with a final five-kilometer push to Siloam Mission to personally deliver the goods and funds collected, totaling $19,000 for the local non-profit.

“I’m over-the-top happy to have helped out Siloam with the donations,” shared the runner.

One day following the run, Malapad says he’s feeling tired but grateful for the success of his efforts, due in part to the dedication of those who contributed both financially and through jogging alongside the runner.

“Mentally, I’m feeling light, happy, and fulfilled,” he shared. “My legs, ankles, and feet were not my friend on the first steps out of bed.”

Malapad said that the primary reason for his run was to raise awareness about the importance of the work Siloam does in Winnipeg. He first began the yearly fundraiser after hearing the story of a homeless woman who passed away due to the cold.

“Education, awareness first, and action with the donations really made this event special. Many people want to help and this event prompted people to help out.”

The runner says that he will be collecting donations online until Monday, December 31.