Sources’ first in-person Coldest Night of the Year event in two years raised more than $239,000 in support of programs and services for the homeless, hungry and hurting in White Rock and South Surrey.
According to a news release, more than 400 donors turned out to White Rock’s waterfront during Saturday’s (Feb. 25) brisk winter weather to rally for the cause.
Results of the 10th anniversary event pushed Sources’ combined fundraising total past the $1 million mark.
“Over the past 10 years of CNOY, our community has helped raise awareness about a very challenging issue that wasn’t talked about much – homelessness,” Sources Foundation CEO David Young said in the release.
“It’s encouraging to be a part of something that has everyone across ages, cultures, beliefs and financial levels gathering for a very real matter that affects our community.”
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Proceeds from the fundraiser will help provide pantry items and hot meals, clothing, rent support and counselling for those struggling with mental-health issues, the release states. As well, Sources Foundation will use the funds to purchase a van to drive those who don’t have any other way of getting to its resource centres.
“I’m very proud of our kind-hearted community that has helped raise $238,000 and counting this year,” said Bryan Sommer, CNOY co-chair. “Each year I attend, I feel proud of the work Sources Foundation does to put this event on.”
The walk was kicked off by White Rock Mayor Megan Knight. Celebrity fitness instructor Tommy Europe led the warm-up send off, and Billy White and the Rockettes sang tunes that got the crowd grooving.
Other highlights included Korki Klown, face painting and a scavenger hunt. The walkathon concluded with Sheila’s Catering serving hot soup, Rotary Club of White Rock providing hot dogs, Little Ootie’s warm donuts, Starbucks coffee and treats by HomeLife Benchmark Realty Corp.
“Our community has once again demonstrated their generous, caring hearts, making White Rock/South Surrey the second leading fundraiser out of 182 locations across Canada,” Marc Burchell, CNOY co-chair said in the release.
Cloverdale’s event, hosted by Cloverdale Community Kitchen, was the number-one fundraiser, collecting more than $274,000.
Top walker for the White Rock/South Surrey event was Ernie Klassen of White Rock Pride Society, who collected donations more than $8,500 in donations. The top team this year – of 64 registered – was White Rock Baptist Church, with more than $31,000 raised. Other teams included Saint Jean Paul II Academy, Scouts for the Homeless and United Feet On The Street.
Lead sponsors were Elkay Developments Ltd. and RBC.
This year’s fundraising goal is $250,000, and organizers say there is still time to reach it. Donations may be made until March 31. To pitch in, visit cnoy.org/whiterocksouthsurrey
tracy.holmes@peacearchnews.com
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