Stratford’s Coldest Night of the Year walk has already raised more than half of its $170,000 goal.
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Registrations are still being accepted for the United Way Perth-Huron and Shelterlink Youth Services’ fundraiser Feb. 24 in support of local people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness.
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“This event is a positive initiative in our branch in more than one way,” said Mark Shorey, a senior branch manager at Scotiabank in Stratford, which is one of the sponsors. “We get the opportunity to support a good cause, and we get to gather outside of work. We can’t ignore the increase in people experiencing homelessness, and we’re forced to do something about it.
“We know the event is fun, but the cause is serious.”
Walker check-in begins at 4 pm at the Upper Queen’s Park bandshell, with opening ceremonies at 5 pm Warm soup from Soup Surreal will be served starting at 6 pm
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The route includes one or two circuits around the Avon River before returning to the bandshell. Adult participants raising more than $150, or youth under 18 raising more than $75, receive a Coldest Night of the Year toque.
The top three fundraising teams to date are The Sweet Samuels (Jana Bayer-Smith, captain), Walking Soccer Sloths (Graham Bunting, captain) and Team Haggis (Marilyn Holmes, captain).
To register to walk or donate to an existing team, visit cnoy.org/location/stratford. Funds raised go to support Shelterlink’s work with local youth experiencing homelessness through their programs and services. Last year, Shelterlink supported 113 youth through their outreach and shelter services. Money also benefits United Way Perth Huron’s Stratford Connection Centre, which provides a safe place for vulnerable people and gives them access to basic needs, social ties and connections with allies and services.
For more information, visit shelterlink.org or call 519-272-2294.
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