The Coldest Night of the Year is a ‘winterrific’ family-friendly walk to raise money for local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness and is held on February 25th in conjunction with the United Way. It’s an annual chance to team up, fundraise, walk, and gather for good.
Those at the in-person event had the choice of walking a 2km or 5km route through the downtown core with volunteers along the way and snacks at the end provided by the Queen’s Bar & Grill.
By walking in the cold, it is anticipated that everyone will feel just a hint of the challenge faced by those experiencing homelessness during winter and, through fundraising, much-needed money will be donated to the United Way Bruce Grey that brings help to people in the community who need support.
For the first time, the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) 2023 came to Saugeen Shores and Kincardine, each with a goal of raising $20,000.
Kincardine had 113 walkers, 25 teams and nine volunteers. The community reached 100 per cent of its goal of $20,000, raising $20,128.
Saugeen Shores, as expected, went above-and-beyond its goal raising $45,762 at last count with 209 walkers, 32 teams and 44 volunteers reaching 228 per cent of its goal.
A young student (Natalie) gave a moving first-hand account of what it means to live in poverty, without a home. Many in the audience had tears as they listened to the young girl’s account of life in poverty … “I’ve been there, I know what it’s like”.
Photo Gallery – for larger view click on image
