By Lookout Staff

November 19, 2021 -- The Santa Monica Walk to End Alzheimer's raised $127,063 last month, part of the $1.63 million brought in by the annual series of walks in Southern California, Alzheimer’s Association officials announced this week.

The 13 walks -- which drew nearly 6,400 residents from seven Southern California counties -- raised money to "fund free, local support, research and advocacy for Alzheimer's disease and all other dementia," officials said.

The Santa Monica walk drew 346 Westside residents to the Pier on October 24, raising much-needed funds to support the Alzheimer’s Association's "long-term dedication to the City by the Sea and the LA's Westside," Association officials said.

"In the Santa Monica community, sponsors, volunteers and supporters demonstrated a collective dedication to end Alzehimer's and all other dementia, and to support those facing a dementia diagnosis along the way," officials said.

The 13 Alzheimer’s Association Walks, which were held from October 2 to November 13, will help provide 24/7, year-round care and support through the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900).

The local chapter "holds over 40 online and telephone support groups and education classes per month and is in the process of returning to in-person meetings," officials said.

"Online webinars on the latest research are available to everyone in the chapter territory, and advocacy for those facing Alzheimer’s and caregivers takes place at every level of government."

Meg Barron, Alzheimer’s Association California Southland Executive Director and Regional Leader, praised the commitment and altruism of all those who participated in he walk.

“Those who walked, volunteered, sponsored and supported did so to help those now and in the future, for families in their neighborhoods and for families they may never meet," Barron said.

"The spirit of altruism and support has been unmatchable by every participant.

"Because of these individuals, our community is walking one step closer to ending Alzheimer’s while helping those in need of support along the way,” Barron said.

The Alzheimer's Association California Southland Chapter serves Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Kern, Kings, Tulare and Inyo counties.

For more information on the care and support, research, and advocacy programs made possible by walkers, visit alz.org/socal.

For more information on the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s, visit alz.org/walk.