Donning their toques and lacing up their walking shoes, Semiahmoo Peninsula residents took to the White Rock waterfront for this year’s successful Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY), which has ranked number one in all of Canada.
Held yearly in many communities around Canada, Coldest Night of the Year raises funds that go toward each community’s organizations that serve people who are experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.
With 90 per cent of their goal achieved, $271,524 had been raised as of Monday morning (Feb. 26), with the local event bringing in 570 walkers for 63 teams on the late afternoon of a chilly Saturday (Feb. 24).
Although the end-goal has not been reached yet, total funds so far have already surpassed last year’s $239,000.
The Peninsula’s Coldest Night was run by Sources Community Resources Society, which runs a food bank in the area and homelessness services, which the funds will go towards, states a press release from the organization.
With musical guests, a spread of refreshments from local eateries and even a clown to entertain all, the walk concluded with a prize draw after a strolling route beginning at Memorial Park.
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Topping the list of fundraising groups was White Rock Pride Society, bringing in $33,500 in funds for Sources, with Ernie Klassen from the group being named the “champion” of fundraising. Klassen raised a total of $26,700.
“A big thanks to each of you for once again stepping up to support those in our community who are struggling,” Marc Burchell, CNOY ambassador for White Rock and South Surrey, said in a press release.
Funds are continuing to be accepted for Coldest Night until March 31, with the White Rock and South Surrey group nearing its goal of $300,000. For those interested in donating, visit cnoy.org/whiterocksouthsurrey