#175 Coldest Night of the Year 2018

On these cold and frigid nights during the winter as we’re cuddled under blankets with loved ones it’s easy to forget that there are people out there, for one reason or another, without a home or family to care for them and keep them warm. This is not strictly a downtown Toronto problem, but a problem that is shared across many communities big and small across Canada. Here is where a great an important event like the Coldest Night of the Year comes in.

The Coldest Night of the Year is a “fantastically fun, family-friendly walking fundraiser that raises money for the hungry, homeless and hurting in 65 communities across Canada”. Walk amongst friends and others in 2, 5, or 10km walk routes on February 24 2018 to experience a tiny bit of the challenge faced by those experiencing homelessness. Almost 17 million dollars has been raised since 2011 but more funds are needed to reach out to every single person affected by homelessness.

In addition to raising funds the Coldest Night of the Year walk brings attention to the plight of the homeless and the hope that the number of participants increases year over year. Walk registration begins at 4pm with opening ceremonies taking place at 5pm and the actual walk shortly thereafter. Warm light meals will be served beginning at 6pm along with coffee and other treats so be sure to linger after that walk to talk and be amongst your existing and new friends. Of course dress according to weather conditions as it could get quite cold.

All of this couldn’t take place with the various local charities organize the walk and in Etobicoke it’s the great organization Haven on the Queensway. Having opened their doors in 2009 Haven on the Queensway has been helping people in Etobicoke and surrounding communities. “At the Haven they can find food, clothing, resource support, a cup of coffee or soup, a smile and an encouraging word”. Susan Carbone and the rest of the staff at Haven on the Q work tirelessly to help those less fortunate.

So visit the Coldest Night of the Year website below, register yourself or your team, and raise funds for this very important charity. Living on the streets during these ridiculously cold nights should not be happening in 2015 and yet there are thousands of people doing that today. Your help is needed.

Coldest Night of the Year: Where and When in Etobicoke…

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