It might not have been the coldest night temperature-wise but, for walkers in Owen Sound on Saturday, February 23rd, it was the Coldest Night of the Year when it came to FUNdraising.
More than 140 walkers took part in the first annual walk that raised funds for Safe and Sound, a drop-in emergency help centre where “… no money exchanges hands”. It is a volunteer-driven, hands-on centre.
In 2007, ten citizens got together and decided to proactively do something and make a difference for those less fortunate or those who were ‘down on their luck’ or, for whatever reason, were struggling. They decided to organize a drop-in centre where no-one would be judged.
Today, the not-for-profit Safe and Sound serves some 45 to 70 people a day with free meals, clothing, a chance to shower, counseling and help to find housing. In addition, they offer a clean needle exchange for those addicted, immunization and even a podiatrist for foot care.
“We have eight apartments upstairs,” says Board Member and walk organizer, Leon Frisch. “The rules are no alcohol, no drugs, respect for others and willing to get help. It is not meant to be permanent.”
Director of the Centre, Connie McKay, said that their goal for their first fundraising Coldest Night of the Year walk was to raise $15,000. At last count, more than $28,000 had been raised with more coming in. “We are absolutely amazed,” said McKay. “I don’t even know what to say!”
Frisch added that 100 percent of the funds go to help maintain the Centre. “It costs approximately $140,000 to maintain the centre so this amount raised will make a huge difference. We also receive a lot of help from Grey County and our volunteers man the ‘Help’ phone line from 4:30 to 10:o p.m. seven days a week for free.”
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To learn more about Safe and Sound, or to donate, visit: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/safe-n-sound-residence/
