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"Scugog's Community Newspaper of Choice" Raising awareness of child poverty Priest, 77, stops in Port on cross-Canada walk By Chris Hall Port Perry Star A Montreal man who is walking across Canada made a brief stop in Port Perry yesterday, en route to Toronto to meet up with some old friends. And, Jacques Mercier, 77, also made new friends here on Monday (july 31), stopping and chatting with area residents as he strolled through downtown Port Perry. A Catholic priest, Mr. Mercier has spent 20 years in Mexico, teaching natives. During his stay there, he walked through portions of southern Mexico, Central America, and the southern United States. Now, five years after returning from Mexico, he has begun a journey across his homeland. "Three years ago | walked across the regions of Quebec; now I've decided to walk across Canada," he said. He began his trip in Halifax on May 16, and plans to arrive in Vancouver some- time in late October. He averages between 25 and 30 kilometres each day. Looking tanned and lean, Mr. Mercier says he is self-sufficient as he continues his cross-country voyage. "I have a little tent, | sleep where | can, in fields and along roadways. | have had no problems," he said. He accepts no rides or money. "I'm doing this on my own, The only one who's helping me pay for this is (Prime Minister) Jean Chretien," said Mr. Mercier, referring to his monthly pension cheque. When asked the reason for his walk, Mr. Mercier said his efforts are for the Mexican and other Latin American chil- dren. "They're in a terrible situation. They have no childrens' rights to respect and protection. They're not in a situation to fight for themselves, to stay away from violence, prostitution and corruption," said Mr. Mercier. "People need to know about those children who are victims of this world." As for the remainder of his journey, Mr. Mercier is unsure of his path, but looks forward to each and every town on his way to the West Coast. "The people, everywhere, are very gentle and warm. Everyone tells me not to quit, and to keep going," he said. "Everyday, everywhere | go, | meet interesting people." Jacques Mercier, a 77-year-old Catholic priest from Montreal, takes a break to talk with a reporter while passing through Port Perry Monday. Mr. Mercier is walking across P ORT PERRY STAR - Tuesday, August 1, 2000 - 1 3