Lifting weights for a good cause

Weightlifters of all sizes came together Saturday for a good cause. Strength Haven gym in Elkhart hosted a Barbells and Blankets Fundraiser.

The goal was to raise money and blankets for the local homeless population.

“We’re just trying to use our strength to lift others,” said Strength Haven Owner Dan Gibson. 

For a $20 fee and donation of a blanket or sleeping bag, lifters could compete in a bench press and dead lift competition. 

“It’s getting cold and we take a lot for granted I think. It’s easy to just get in your car and go places. Some people don’t have that,” said Danielle Ternet who competed in the event.

Each year Strength Haven has a fundraiser. This is the first year they have targeted the homeless.

“It just seems like this year it’s been on a lot of people’s minds. It seems like it keeps coming up over and over and over. As we look around in the area there’s just a lot of people in need so we’re just trying to help out,” Gibson added.

In total more than 300 blankets were collected and more than $1,000 raised to give to local homeless shelters.